In the freezer
1–2 months
Yes, short term
Quality holds for about 1–2 months at 0°F / -18°C. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; only quality declines.
Quick answer
Yes: uncooked boneless leg ham keeps 1–2 months in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C), compared with 1 week in the fridge.
How to freeze uncooked boneless leg ham
- Freeze on or before the last fridge day; the earlier, the better the texture.
- Overwrap the store pack in foil or a freezer bag, or vacuum-seal; squeeze out air.
- Thaw in the fridge (about 24 hours per 5 lb), or in cold water and cook right away.
How to thaw uncooked boneless leg ham
In the fridge
Safest. Allow about 24 hours per 5 lb (2.3 kg); small packs thaw overnight. Once thawed, raw meat and seafood keep 1–2 extra days in the fridge.
In cold water
Seal it in a leak-proof bag and submerge; change the water every 30 minutes. Allow about 30 minutes per pound, then cook right away.
In the microwave
Use the defrost setting and cook immediately — parts of the food may start to cook.
Yes, short termQuality holds for about 1–2 months at 0°F / -18°C. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; only quality declines.
Freezer vs fridge vs counter
Uncooked boneless leg ham Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 hours
1 hour if above 90°F
In the fridgeFridge
1 week
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
1–2 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
More about uncooked boneless leg ham
FAQ
How long can you freeze uncooked boneless leg ham?
About 1–2 months for best quality at 0°F (-18°C). Kept frozen, it stays safe longer, but texture and flavour fade.
How do you thaw frozen uncooked boneless leg ham?
Safest. Allow about 24 hours per 5 lb (2.3 kg); small packs thaw overnight. Once thawed, raw meat and seafood keep 1–2 extra days in the fridge.
Can you refreeze uncooked boneless leg ham?
Only if it was thawed in the fridge and has not been left out. Quality drops each time.
Does freezing kill bacteria in uncooked boneless leg ham?
No. Freezing pauses bacteria; they become active again as the food thaws. Cook or reheat to a safe temperature.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number