Start here before heading to the grocery store.

Easterits one of the holidays when supermarkets fill their meat cases with hams of all types and sizes.

Even if you have your plan down to a science, weve got some new ideas to inspire you.

Autumn Stuffed Spiral Ham

Credit: Blaine Moats

Here’s a complete guide to the types of ham.

Most hams you’ll find made in the United States are city hams.

They are wet-cured and made by soaking the meat in a saltwater solution or injecting them with a brine.

spiral cut ham

Credit:Jacob Fox

You may also see country ham, which is dry rubbed and hung to dry like prosciutto.

There are also fresh hams, which are uncured.

Half Ham

Half hams are either butt (rump) or shank portions.

half a ham

Credit:Jacob Fox

The butt comes from the upper part of the leg.

Its meatier and more tender than the shank (the lower leg section.)

The shank is slightly tougher because it has more connective tissue.

whole ham

Credit:Jacob Fox

If youre feeding a big crowd, this is the one to get.

They average 20 servings.

Does Ham Come Pre-Cooked?

Stuffed Spiral Ham serving platter oranges

Credit: Jacob Fox

The majority of hams are fully cooked so only need to be reheated to 140F.

Bake your ham, covered, at 325F for 20 min./lb.

for bone-in and 15 min./lb.

How Much Ham Do I Need?

Each throw in varies in weight.

Use the guide below to ensure youre buying enough.

confirm to spoon the glaze over the ham during the last 45 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

If you bought a spiral ham, make acitrusy stuffed spiral hamorglaze it with chutney.

Make the best use of a half ham with agarlicky pineapple glaze.

If you have leftover ham, try making aclassic ham saladfor sandwiches.