How Big A Ham To Buy May 2026

Are you planning to make with the bone afterward?

Use this guide for a standard dinner where you want enough for everyone to be full, with just a little bit left over for a sandwich the next day. Number of Guests Boneless Ham Bone-In Ham 1.5 – 2 lbs 3 – 4 lbs 6 People 2 – 3 lbs 5 – 6 lbs 10 People 4 – 5 lbs 8 – 10 lbs 15 People 6 – 7 lbs 12 – 15 lbs 20 People 8 – 10 lbs 15 – 20 lbs (or two smaller hams) ⚠️ Factors That Change the Math how big a ham to buy

The Shank (lower leg) is the classic "tapered" look and is easier to carve. The Butt (upper leg) is leaner and more tender but has a tricky T-shaped bone that makes slicing a bit harder. Are you planning to make with the bone afterward

If your guest list includes three teenage athletes or a group of "meat and potatoes" enthusiasts, always round up by at least 2 pounds. The Butt (upper leg) is leaner and more

The "right size" depends entirely on whether you are buying a ham with a bone or one without.

These are convenient but can dry out faster during reheating. If you choose this, keep your oven temperature low (around 275°F or 325°F) and keep it tightly covered in foil.