Crockpot Ham Recipe (with Video)

Crockpot Ham Recipe: Who doesn’t love a juicy, tender ham that practically falls apart with every forkful? Cooking ham in a crockpot (slow cooker) isn’t just convenient; it’s a flavor-packed game changer. No more dry oven-baked hams or complicated cooking methods—just throw it all in and let time work its magic.

A crockpot does more than just simplify your cooking process. It allows the ham to slowly soak up all the seasonings, spices, and glaze while maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it irresistible. Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or just a hearty family dinner, crockpot ham is always a hit.

If you’ve never tried slow cooking ham, you’re in for a treat. This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the right ingredients to serving it like a pro.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A great dish starts with great ingredients, and crockpot ham is no exception. The key is not to overcomplicate it. Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect crockpot ham:

Selecting the Right Ham

Choosing the right cut of ham is crucial. You can go with:

• Bone-in Ham: Offers more flavor but might be trickier to fit in a crockpot.
• Boneless Ham: Easier to handle and slice.
• Spiral-Cut Ham: Pre-sliced and easy to serve, but can dry out faster.

Look for fully cooked ham, as most store-bought hams are pre-cooked and only need reheating.

Essential Ingredients for Flavor

Here’s a simple list of must-have ingredients:

• Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds a sweet, caramelized glaze.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (½ cup): For depth and stickiness.
• Pineapple Juice or Orange Juice (1 cup): Adds acidity and balances sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp): Gives a tangy kick.
• Cloves (optional): For a holiday touch.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cinnamon (optional): Customize to your taste.

All these flavors come together to create a rich, sweet-savory glaze that seeps into every inch of the ham.

Preparing the Ham

Before you drop that ham into the crockpot, a little prep goes a long way.

Trimming and Prepping the Ham

Even if your ham is pre-cooked, you’ll want to:

1. Trim excess fat, but leave a thin layer for flavor.
2. Score the surface in a crisscross pattern if not pre-sliced—this helps the glaze penetrate deeper.
3. Optional: Stud the ham with whole cloves for aroma and flavor.

Prepping the Crockpot

• Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick spray.
• Place a layer of sliced pineapple or onion at the bottom if you want extra flavor and moisture.
• Pour a bit of juice (apple, orange, or pineapple) in the bottom to keep things moist and fragrant.

Now your crockpot is ready for action!

Creating the Perfect Glaze

The glaze is where the magic happens. It brings sweetness, tang, and complexity that make crockpot ham unforgettable.

Sweet vs. Savory Glazes

• Sweet Glaze: Uses ingredients like brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, and fruit juices.
• Savory Glaze: Includes mustard, herbs, garlic, and even soy sauce or Worcestershire for umami flavor.

Most people prefer a sweet glaze with a slight tang to balance the richness of the ham.

Simple Homemade Glaze Recipe

Here’s a no-fuss glaze recipe that packs a punch:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 cup pineapple or orange juice
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of cloves or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Pour half over the ham before cooking, save the rest for basting or serving.

This glaze caramelizes beautifully in the crockpot and adds layers of flavor you’ll crave all year.

Cooking the Ham in a Crockpot

Let’s get into the heart of the process: slow-cooking your ham to perfection.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Place your prepped ham in the crockpot (cut-side down).
2. Pour half of your glaze over the top.
3. Cover with the lid (you may need to cover tightly with foil if the ham sticks out).
4. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours—remember, you’re just heating it through and letting flavors meld.
5. Every hour or so, baste the ham with juices/glaze from the bottom.

Cooking Time and Temperature Guide

Ham Weight	Cook on LOW	Cook on HIGH
3-4 lbs	4 hours	2 hours
5-7 lbs	5-6 hours	3 hours
8-10 lbs	6-7 hours	3-4 hours

The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham.

Checking for Doneness

Cooking meat in a crockpot can be a bit tricky when it comes to determining if it’s done, especially because the outside always looks amazing. But you want to be sure your ham is heated all the way through.

Using a Meat Thermometer

The most foolproof method is using a meat thermometer. For fully cooked ham, you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, but avoid hitting the bone (if it’s bone-in), as that can give a false reading.

If your ham isn’t pre-cooked (rare, but possible), you’ll need to cook it to 160°F (71°C). Just double-check the label when you buy it so you know what you’re working with.

Visual and Texture Clues

Sometimes you might not have a thermometer on hand. That’s where a few visual and texture cues can help:

• Juices: If the juices run clear and are hot, your ham is likely ready.
• Texture: The meat should pull apart easily with a fork and feel tender.
• Glaze: The glaze should look caramelized and sticky, coating the ham nicely.

These signs combined with your cooking time should give you a good indication that it’s ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

Once your ham is hot, juicy, and glazed to perfection, it’s time to serve. Presentation and pairing make a big difference, especially if it’s a special occasion.

Ideal Side Dishes

Pair your crockpot ham with sides that balance its sweet and savory flavor. Here are a few tried-and-true favorites:

• Mashed Potatoes or Scalloped Potatoes
• Roasted Vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, green beans)
• Mac and Cheese (comfort food classic)
• Dinner Rolls or Cornbread
• Coleslaw or Potato Salad (especially for spring/summer meals)
• Baked Beans for a Southern twist

Mix and match depending on the season or the vibe of your meal—fancy holiday dinner or casual family feast.

Carving and Presentation Tips

Carving ham is easier than you might think, especially if you have a spiral-cut one. Here’s how to do it like a pro:

• Bone-in Ham: Slice down one side of the bone, then make horizontal cuts to create portions.
• Boneless Ham: Just slice into even pieces across the grain.
• Presentation Tip: Pour any remaining glaze over the slices before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or pineapple rings for a festive touch.

Don’t forget to place your beautifully carved ham on a nice serving platter—it adds to the appeal!

Leftovers and Storage

Crockpot ham leftovers are gold. You can get creative with them all week long, and they reheat beautifully.

How to Store Crockpot Ham

Once the ham cools down to room temperature:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze slices or chunks in sealed bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date.
• Juices: Save any leftover juices for soups or reheating—it’s packed with flavor.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or leftover glaze to keep it moist.

Creative Leftover Ham Ideas

Don’t just reheat and eat. Turn those leftovers into something amazing:

1. Ham and Cheese Omelet or Quiche
2. Ham Fried Rice with vegetables and eggs
3. Ham Sandwiches or Sliders with a honey mustard sauce
4. Ham Soup – especially with beans or potatoes
5. Pasta with Ham and Peas in a creamy sauce

Ham’s versatility means your meals for the next few days are covered—and they’ll taste just as good, if not better.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham

Even a simple recipe like this has its secrets. Want to make sure your ham turns out amazing every time? Keep these tips in mind.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Slow cookers are forgiving, but leaving it too long can dry it out.
• Too Much Liquid: A little goes a long way. You’re not boiling the ham, just creating steam and flavor.
• Lid Lifting: Keep that lid on unless you’re basting. Every peek lets out heat.
• Unbalanced Flavors: Taste your glaze. Too sweet? Add mustard. Too tangy? Add a little more sugar.

Expert Tips for Juicy Ham

• Baste Regularly: Every hour, spoon the juices back over the ham.
• Add Glaze at the End: For extra caramelization, broil it for 5 minutes after slow cooking.
• Use Pineapple Slices: Lay them on top of the ham for moisture and a pop of tropical flavor.

Master these, and your crockpot ham will be legendary.

FAQs about Crockpot Ham Recipe

Q1: Can I use a frozen ham in the crockpot?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the ham completely before cooking for even heat distribution and proper seasoning absorption. Always follow safe thawing guidelines.

Q2: How long does it take to cook ham in a crockpot?

Cooking times vary by size, but typically a fully cooked ham takes 4 to 6 hours on LOW. Use a meat thermometer—your ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Q3: What type of ham works best in a crockpot?

Bone-in or boneless, spiral-cut hams are ideal. Spiral hams absorb glaze well and are easy to serve, while bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful.

Q4: Do I need to add water or broth?

No, it’s not required. Most crockpot ham recipes use a glaze (like brown sugar, honey, or pineapple juice) instead of water. The ham also releases its own juices during cooking.

Q5: Can I glaze the ham while it’s in the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Pour your glaze over the ham before cooking, and baste occasionally for extra flavor. For a caramelized finish, you can broil it for a few minutes after slow cooking.

Q6: Can I cook vegetables with the ham?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the bottom of the crockpot. Just note that they will absorb some of the ham’s salty flavor.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

Cool the ham completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat leftover crockpot ham?

Reheat slices in the oven wrapped in foil, or in a skillet with a splash of water or glaze to keep it moist.

Conclusion

There you have it—your foolproof, flavor-packed, step-by-step guide to making the ultimate crockpot ham. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just treating the family to something special, this recipe delivers every time. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a win-win.

So dust off that crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious ham that practically cooks itself. Once you taste that sweet, juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat, you’ll never go back to oven baking again.