Are you in a rush to prepare a delicious meal but forgot to thaw your ham steak?
Don’t worry, cooking a frozen ham steak is perfectly safe and can be just as tasty as a thawed one.
Whether you’re cooking for one or for a crowd, ham steak is an easy and versatile protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways.
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for cooking frozen ham steak, including in the oven and air fryer.
So, let’s get started and learn how to cook a delicious and tender frozen ham steak!
How To Cook Frozen Ham Steak?
There are a few different methods for cooking frozen ham steak, depending on your preferences and available equipment. Here are some options to consider:
Why It’s Safe To Cook A Frozen Ham Steak
Cooking a frozen ham steak is perfectly safe, according to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline. However, it’s important to note that it will take about 50 percent longer to cook a fully-frozen ham than it would a thawed one. This is because the heat needs to penetrate through the frozen meat before it can cook it thoroughly.
It’s also important to note that while cooking a frozen ham steak is safe, refreezing it after it has been defrosted is not recommended. Freezing and thawing ham steak can cause the cell structures of the meat to rupture, which can lead to dryness and a loss of quality. Therefore, if you plan to cook a frozen ham steak, it’s best to use the entire portion and not refreeze any leftovers.
To ensure that your frozen ham steak is cooked safely and thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends that ham should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving. This will ensure that any harmful bacteria have been destroyed and that the meat is safe to eat.
Preparing Your Frozen Ham Steak For Cooking
Before you start cooking your frozen ham steak, it’s important to properly prepare it. First, remove any packaging or wrapping from the ham steak. Then, rinse it under cold water to remove any ice crystals that may have formed on the surface.
Next, pat the ham steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the ham cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too watery.
Once your ham steak is dry, you can proceed with cooking it using one of the methods outlined above. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your ham steak and the cooking method you choose.
If you’re cooking your ham steak in the oven, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the ham steak in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for approximately 50% longer than you would for a thawed ham steak, checking it periodically to ensure it’s cooked through.
Alternatively, you can cook your ham steak on the stovetop in a skillet. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once the skillet is hot, add your ham steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and heated through.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your ham steak has reached an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit before serving. This will ensure that it’s safe to eat and deliciously flavorful.
Oven-baked Frozen Ham Steak Recipe
If you prefer to cook your frozen ham steak in the oven, this recipe is a great option. It requires just a few simple ingredients and produces a flavorful and tender ham steak.
Ingredients:
– 1 frozen ham steak
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and ground cloves together.
3. Place the frozen ham steak on a baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish.
4. Brush the melted butter mixture over the ham steak.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and paprika.
6. Spread the mixture over the ham steak, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Bake the ham steak in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until it is heated through and tender.
This oven-baked frozen ham steak recipe is a simple and delicious way to cook your frozen ham steak. The combination of butter, mustard, brown sugar, and paprika creates a sweet and savory glaze that perfectly complements the flavor of the ham. Give it a try and enjoy a tasty and easy meal!
Air-fried Frozen Ham Steak Recipe
Cooking frozen ham steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without having to thaw the meat beforehand. Here’s how to make air-fried frozen ham steak:
Ingredients:
– 1 frozen ham steak
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/ 200°C for 5 minutes.
2. While the air fryer is preheating, mix together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Remove the frozen ham steak from its packaging and place it in the air fryer basket.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture onto both sides of the ham steak.
5. Cook the ham steak in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping it halfway through the cooking time.
6. Check the internal temperature of the ham steak with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 145°F/ 63°C.
7. Once cooked, remove the ham steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe is perfect for those who want a quick and easy meal that is still flavorful and juicy. The honey mustard glaze adds a touch of sweetness to the savory ham steak, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, cooking frozen ham steak in an air fryer saves time and hassle, making it a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Other Cooking Methods For Frozen Ham Steak
While the oven and stovetop methods described above are great for thawed ham steak, what if you forgot to thaw your ham steak before dinner? Don’t worry, there are still ways to cook a delicious frozen ham steak.
One option is to use a microwave. Place the frozen ham steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, then flip the ham steak over and microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 145°F.
Another option is to cook the frozen ham steak in a slow cooker. Place the frozen ham steak in the slow cooker and add any desired seasonings or sauces. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ham steak is heated through and tender.
If you have an air fryer, you can also cook frozen ham steak in it. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and place the frozen ham steak in the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the ham steak is heated through and crispy on the outside.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the ham steak with a meat thermometer before serving to ensure it has reached at least 145°F. And remember, while frozen ham steaks can be cooked safely, they may not have the same texture or flavor as fresh or thawed ham steaks.
Tips For Serving And Storing Cooked Ham Steak.
Once you’ve cooked your ham steak, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its freshness and safety. Here are some tips for serving and storing cooked ham steak:
1. Refrigerate leftover ham steak as soon as possible after serving. Do not allow the ham to set at room temperature for more than two hours.
2. Leftover ham steak does not need to be completely cooled before refrigerating. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, foil, an airtight bag or airtight container and then store it in a refrigerator at 40°F or less.
3. Properly stored, cooked ham steak will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
4. If you have leftover ham steak that you won’t be able to consume within the next few days, consider freezing it. Freeze in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrap tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap.
5. Cooked ham steak can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months while still maintaining its quality.
6. When thawing frozen ham steak, it’s best to do so in the refrigerator for a day or two before cooking. Ham steak that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be eaten immediately.
7. To tell if cooked ham steak is bad, check for signs of sour smell and slimy texture. If the ham steak has an off smell or appearance, discard it and do not taste first.
By following these tips for serving and storing cooked ham steak, you can ensure that your leftovers remain fresh and safe to eat while also extending their shelf life.