7 Easy Steps to Grill Ham on a Gas Grill

Choose a bone-in or boneless half ham with a good fat layer, and avoid heavy glazes. Score and season it, then preheat your gas grill to 350°F–400°F. Set up for indirect grilling by turning on one side and placing the ham over the cooler side. Grill slowly at 250°F–300°F, applying glaze near the end. Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Keep going to discover tips that make this process even easier.

Choose the Right Type of Ham

How do you pick the best ham for grilling? Start by choosing a ham that suits grilling well, like a bone-in or boneless half ham. These options cook evenly and absorb smoky flavors better than fully cooked deli ham.

You’ll want a ham that isn’t pre-sliced to keep it juicy and prevent it from drying out on the grill. Look for hams labeled “smoked” or “cured” since they add depth to your grilled dish.

Avoid hams with heavy glazes or too much added sugar, as they can burn easily. A fresh, quality ham with a good fat layer will give you the best results. Picking the right ham sets the stage for a flavorful, tender grilled meal every time.

Prepare the Ham for Grilling

Before you place your ham on the grill, you need to prepare it properly to enhance flavor and ensure even cooking. Start by removing any packaging and pat the ham dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick better.

Score the surface in a diamond pattern, cutting about ¼ inch deep—this allows the heat and glaze to penetrate evenly.

If your ham has a rind or thick fat layer, trim it down to about ¼ inch thickness, leaving enough fat to keep the meat moist.

Next, apply your chosen glaze or seasoning evenly over the scored surface.

Let the ham sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to take the chill off, which helps it cook more uniformly on the grill.

Preheat Your Gas Grill

Once your ham is prepped and ready, turn your attention to heating up the gas grill. Start by opening the lid and turning on all burners to high heat. Close the lid and let the grill preheat for about 10 to 15 minutes.

You want the grill to reach a steady temperature of around 350°F to 400°F. Use a built-in thermometer if your grill has one, or an external grill thermometer for accuracy. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and helps prevent the ham from sticking to the grates.

Avoid rushing this step; a well-preheated grill creates those perfect grill marks and locks in flavor. Once the grill hits the right temperature, you’ll be ready to move on to the next stage of grilling your ham.

Set Up for Indirect Grilling

Although direct heat cooks quickly, setting up your gas grill for indirect grilling lets you cook the ham evenly without burning the outside. Start by turning on one side of your gas grill while leaving the other side off. This creates separate heat zones: direct heat where the burners are on, and indirect heat where they’re off.

Place a drip pan under the grill grates on the cooler side to catch drippings and prevent flare-ups.

Position your ham on the side without direct flames, ensuring it’s not over an active burner. Close the grill lid to maintain consistent heat and allow the ham to cook through gently.

This setup helps you control the temperature and avoid charring while the ham slowly heats inside.

Grill the Ham Slowly and Evenly

With your grill set up for indirect heat, you’ll want to focus on cooking the ham slowly and evenly to lock in moisture and flavor. Place the ham on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct flames. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature, ideally around 250°F to 300°F.

Rotate the ham occasionally to ensure all sides receive gentle, even heat. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for about 140°F for pre-cooked hams or 160°F for raw ones. Avoid rushing this process; slow cooking prevents drying out and enhances tenderness.

Patience here pays off, giving you a juicy, flavorful ham that’s perfectly grilled every time.

Apply Your Favorite Glaze

A flavorful glaze can take your grilled ham to the next level by adding a delicious, caramelized finish. Once your ham is nearly cooked through, brush your favorite glaze evenly over the surface.

Whether you prefer a classic honey mustard, brown sugar and pineapple, or a maple bourbon glaze, make sure it’s thick enough to stick but not so runny that it drips off. Close the grill lid and let the glaze cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, checking often to prevent burning.

Apply another coat if desired for extra flavor and shine. This step enhances both taste and presentation, giving your ham a glossy, mouthwatering appearance that’ll impress everyone at the table without any extra fuss.

Rest and Serve the Grilled Ham

Once you’ve finished glazing and grilling your ham, let it rest for at least 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice stays moist and flavorful. Avoid cutting too soon, or the juices will run out, leaving your ham dry.

When ready, use a sharp knife to slice the ham against the grain for tender pieces. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for added flavor and shine.

Serve your grilled ham with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious smoky taste you achieved on the gas grill. Remember, resting is key to a juicy, perfectly cooked ham every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Grill Ham on a Charcoal Grill Instead of a Gas Grill?

Yes, you can grill ham on a charcoal grill. Just control the heat by managing the coals, use indirect heat to avoid burning, and keep the lid closed for even cooking. You’ll get great smoky flavor that way!

How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Ham Safely?

You should cool leftover grilled ham quickly, then store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Keep it in the fridge and eat within 3-4 days to stay safe.

What Side Dishes Pair Best With Grilled Ham?

You’ll love pairing grilled ham with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Sweet sides like pineapple or baked beans also complement the smoky flavor perfectly, making your meal balanced and delicious.

Can I Use Frozen Ham for Grilling, or Must It Be Thawed?

You should always thaw ham before grilling to ensure even cooking and avoid food safety risks. Grilling frozen ham can result in uneven heat distribution and a less juicy, tough texture. Plan ahead for best results!

How Long Can Grilled Ham Be Kept at Room Temperature?

You shouldn’t leave grilled ham at room temperature for more than two hours. After that, bacteria can grow rapidly. If it’s hotter than 90°F, reduce that time to just one hour to keep it safe.

Conclusion

Grilling ham on your gas grill is easier than you think. By choosing the right ham, prepping it well, and setting up for indirect heat, you’ll get tender, flavorful results every time. Don’t forget to apply your favorite glaze for that perfect finishing touch. Let it rest before serving to lock in the juices. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll impress everyone with a juicy, delicious grilled ham every time. Enjoy!