The Slow Cooker Ham is a timeless dish that combines ease and elegance in one pot. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or special gatherings, this recipe transforms a simple ham into a tender, flavourful centerpiece with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the ham to soak up the sweet and savory glaze, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Slow Cooker Ham:
Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this slow cooker version ensures flawless results every time. With a hint of brown sugar, honey, and pineapple, each bite bursts with rich flavor. It’s the ultimate hands-off dish that delivers comfort, aroma, and taste—just like home-cooked tradition should.
History of Cooker Ham:
Ham has been a celebratory dish for centuries, originally cured and preserved to last through the winter. Over time, baked and glazed ham became a staple at festive tables across Europe and the Americas. The slow cooker version emerged in the mid-20th century as home cooks embraced convenience without compromising taste. Today, it remains one of the easiest ways to achieve that classic, caramelized flavor and tenderness that defines a perfect holiday ham.
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Slow Cooker Ham
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (6–8 lbs, bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices with juice
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup orange juice (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham flat side down in the slow cooker. Trim if necessary to fit.
- Add Pineapple: Pour the pineapple slices and juice over the ham.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and orange juice.
- Pour Over Ham: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the ham.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze.
- Caramelize (Optional): For a sticky glaze, transfer the ham to a baking dish, spoon some glaze over it, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm with the remaining glaze spooned on top.
Notes
- Choose a fully cooked ham—spiral-cut hams absorb the glaze beautifully.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing honey or brown sugar as preferred.
- Use fresh pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
- Leftovers make delicious ham sandwiches or omelets.
- Save the ham bone for soups or beans the next day.
Tips for Slow Cooker:
- Don’t overcook—too long in the slow cooker can dry out the ham.
- Line the slow cooker with foil for easy cleanup.
- Baste halfway through for richer flavour and shine.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rolls for a complete meal.
- Add a splash of apple cider for a fall-inspired variation.
FAQs for Ham:
Q: Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?
It’s best to thaw the ham completely before cooking for even heat distribution.
Q: What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6–8 quart slow cooker works best for a 6–8 lb ham.
Q: Can I use spiral-cut ham?
Yes! Spiral-cut hams soak up the glaze perfectly and are easier to serve.
Q: Can I make this recipe without pineapple?
Yes, substitute with apple juice or orange juice for a similar sweet flavour.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Conclusion:
The Slow Cooker Ham is the ultimate blend of simplicity and flavor, offering tender meat glazed in a sweet, savory sauce that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holidays or everyday dinners, this dish saves time without sacrificing taste. With minimal prep and effortless cooking, it’s a recipe you’ll return to year after year — comforting, delicious, and absolutely foolproof.