Crock Pot Ham Recipe: There’s something magical about walking into your home and being greeted by the rich, savory aroma of ham slowly simmering away in your crock pot.
Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, Sunday family meal, or just because you’re craving something warm and satisfying, this Crock Pot Ham recipe is your ticket to stress-free cooking and flavorful results.
Let’s dive into this foolproof, step-by-step guide that’s going to transform how you serve ham forever.
Why Crock Pot Ham is a Game-Changer
Let’s be honest—baking ham in the oven is great, but using a crock pot? That’s next-level ease and flavor. The crock pot keeps your ham moist, juicy, and tender by locking in the moisture during the long, slow cooking process. Plus, it frees up your oven space (hello, holiday multitasking!) and reduces the chances of your ham drying out. If you’re juggling kids, errands, or just want to throw something together with minimal fuss, this method is perfect for you.
You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to pull this off. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll end up with a ham that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to impress everyone at the table.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long shopping list for this dish. In fact, part of the beauty of this crock pot ham recipe is its simplicity.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in or boneless ham (6-8 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 cup pineapple juice or orange juice
- Whole cloves (optional, for added flavor)
Optional Add-ins for Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Make sure to check the size of your ham against the capacity of your crock pot. A 6 to 7-quart slow cooker usually works best for a standard-sized ham.
Best Type of Ham to Use
When it comes to slow-cooking ham, not all types are created equal. Your best bet is to go for a fully cooked, bone-in ham. Bone-in hams tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless versions. Look for one labeled “spiral-sliced” if you want easy carving later on. Smoked hams add an extra depth of flavor that really comes through during slow cooking.
Avoid raw hams for this recipe, as they need a different cooking method and much more time to reach safe internal temperatures.
Optional Glaze Ingredients
Want to kick things up a notch? Try customizing your glaze. While the classic brown sugar and honey combo is amazing, you can get creative with:
- Cranberry sauce for a holiday twist
- Bourbon for a rich, Southern-style kick
- Mustard and maple syrup for tangy sweetness
- Apricot preserves for something fruity and unexpected
A good glaze isn’t just about sweetness—it balances acidity and spice, creating a coating that caramelizes beautifully.
Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need a high-tech kitchen to make this happen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crock pot (6-8 quart)
- Sharp knife
- Basting brush or spoon
- Small saucepan (if pre-cooking the glaze)
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
Optional but helpful:
- Cutting board with juice groove
- Kitchen twine (to hold large ham pieces together)
How to Prepare the Ham for the Crock Pot
Trimming and Scoring the Ham
First things first—remove any excess fat, but don’t overdo it. A little fat helps the ham stay juicy. Next, score the surface in a criss-cross diamond pattern. This lets the glaze seep deeper into the meat and gives that picture-perfect presentation once it’s done.
If your ham has a thick rind or skin, you’ll want to peel that off first. Use a sharp knife and go slow—you want to remove the tough skin without cutting into the meat.
How to Apply the Glaze Properly
Don’t just dump the glaze on and hope for the best. You want to coat the ham evenly and get that flavor all over. Use a basting brush or spoon and get into the crevices. Pour any remaining glaze over the top before you seal the lid.
If your glaze is thick (like one with preserves or syrup), warm it up slightly in a saucepan to make spreading easier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Ham in a Crock Pot
Cooking ham in a crock pot is an easy, hands-off way to get tender, flavorful results. Slow cooking keeps the meat juicy while allowing the glaze to soak in beautifully.
Step 1: Unpack and Prep Your Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging and discard any plastic or netting. If your ham is too large, trim it slightly to fit your crock pot. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick better.
Step 2: Prepare Your Crock Pot
Lightly spray the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray or line it with a slow-cooker liner for easy cleanup. Place the ham flat-side down so it sits securely and cooks evenly.
Step 3: Create Your Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ingredients like brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of pineapple or orange juice. Stir until smooth. This glaze adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze to the Ham
Brush or spoon the glaze generously over the ham, making sure it coats the top and sides. If the ham is spiral-cut, gently separate the slices so the glaze can seep inside.
Step 5: Set the Crock Pot
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on the size of the ham. Low and slow is best for maximum tenderness.
Step 6: Baste Occasionally
Every hour or so, spoon the juices and glaze from the bottom of the crock pot over the ham. Basting keeps it moist and enhances flavor.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcooking.
Step 8: Rest Before Slicing
Turn off the crock pot and let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and the meat more flavorful.
Glaze Variations to Try
Adding a personal touch to your ham glaze can make all the difference. You can take the same base recipe and tweak it to match your family’s preferences, the season, or the occasion. Here are three flavorful glaze options that will take your Crock Pot ham to the next level.
Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glaze
This is the classic go-to for many families. The sweetness of brown sugar paired with the tropical tang of pineapple juice creates that sticky, caramelized coating that’s to die for.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
Mix everything in a saucepan and heat over low until combined. This glaze adds a hint of island flavor and is perfect for holiday dinners or summer potlucks.
Maple Dijon Mustard Glaze
Want something a little fancier with a subtle tang? Maple syrup and Dijon mustard combine to create a rich, slightly spicy glaze that cuts through the saltiness of the ham beautifully.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
This glaze is great for more refined palates and pairs wonderfully with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
Honey and Clove Glaze
For a warm, comforting flavor, this old-fashioned glaze brings a nostalgic holiday aroma and depth.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
This one is perfect if you’re going for those cozy, spicy holiday vibes. It’s especially great around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
How Long to Cook Ham in the Crock Pot
Timing is everything when it comes to cooking ham in a slow cooker. You want it hot all the way through and tender, but not falling apart or overcooked. Here’s a helpful guide:
| Ham Type | Crock Pot Setting | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| Fully cooked, bone-in (6–8 lbs) | Low | 5–6 hours |
| Fully cooked, boneless (3–4 lbs) | Low | 3–4 hours |
| Spiral-sliced ham | Low | 4–5 hours |
| Ham steaks or slices | High | 2 hours |
Remember, if you’re using a pre-cooked ham (which most are), you’re just warming it through and allowing it to absorb all the glaze and flavors. Always check that internal temp hits 140°F for food safety.
How to Store Leftover Ham
Let’s say you nailed the recipe (which you will), and now you’ve got leftovers. Don’t toss them out! Ham stores wonderfully and can be used in a bunch of delicious recipes.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container. Good for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Place slices in a freezer bag with the air squeezed out, or use vacuum-sealed bags. Good for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or glaze to keep it from drying out.
Want to get even more use out of it? Save the bone for making soup or beans!
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Ham
One of the best parts of making ham is what you can do with the extras. It’s versatile, flavorful, and a great protein to add to so many dishes.
Here are some leftover ham ideas:
- Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Ham and Potato Soup
- Grilled Ham and Swiss Sandwiches
- Ham Fried Rice
- Ham and Egg Muffin Cups
- Mac and Cheese with Ham
- Ham and Pineapple Pizza
- Ham Quiche or Frittata
- Creamy Ham Pasta Bake
- Ham Salad Sandwich Spread
Pro tip: Chop and freeze leftover ham in 1-cup portions so you always have some ready for quick meals!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Ham
- Use a liner to make cleanup easier—trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.
- Don’t skip scoring the ham—it lets the glaze soak in better.
- Check the size of your ham versus your crock pot. You don’t want to find out it doesn’t fit halfway through prep.
- Don’t overcook—even in a slow cooker, ham can dry out if you leave it in too long.
- Let it rest before slicing. This keeps the juices inside the meat and prevents it from drying out.
- Use a basting brush to spread glaze evenly during cooking.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Ham
Ham is a star on its own, but it really shines when paired with the right sides. Whether it’s a casual dinner or holiday feast, here are some perfect pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes or Scalloped Potatoes
- Green Bean Casserole
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Dinner Rolls or Cornbread
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Deviled Eggs
- Mac and Cheese
- Coleslaw or Fresh Salad
Want to impress your guests? Serve with a warm glaze drizzled over the slices and a sprig of rosemary on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Watch out for these common pitfalls:
- Using raw ham: This recipe is meant for fully cooked ham. Raw ham needs different prep and time.
- Overcooking: Slow cookers are forgiving, but too much time on high heat can dry out your meat.
- Too much glaze: Yes, there is such a thing. Too much liquid in your crock pot can dilute the flavor.
- Not trimming the skin: Leaving on the thick rind means the glaze won’t soak in properly.
- Not checking the size: Hams can be awkward. If it’s too big, you may need to trim or use a larger slow cooker.
Why Your Family Will Love This Recipe
It’s not just about flavor—it’s about tradition, warmth, and bringing people together. This Crock Pot ham recipe checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, tastes incredible, and leaves you with tons of leftovers for creative meals. Best of all, you get all the flavor of an oven-roasted ham without the hassle.
Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers that “home-cooked” feel that makes meals memorable. And hey, fewer dishes to wash? That’s just the cherry on top.
FAQs about Crock Pot Ham Recipe
1. Can I cook a frozen ham in the crock pot?
It’s not recommended. Frozen ham should be thawed completely before slow cooking to ensure even heating and food safety.
2. Do I need to add water or broth in the slow cooker?
A little bit of juice (like pineapple or orange) is all you need to keep it moist. Too much liquid can dilute the glaze and flavor.
3. How do I make the glaze stick better?
Scoring the ham and applying a warm glaze helps it cling and seep into the meat for max flavor.
4. Can I leave the crock pot on overnight?
Yes, but only on the low setting and for the proper amount of time. Be sure to monitor for safety and use a timer if possible.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover ham?
Wrap slices in foil with a bit of glaze or broth and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Conclusion
Making Crock Pot ham isn’t just easy—it’s a no-brainer for anyone looking for a juicy, flavorful, and effortless main dish. With a few simple ingredients, a touch of prep, and a few hours of slow cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s tender, sweet, savory, and satisfying every time. No need to babysit the oven or stress over timing—just set it, forget it, and enjoy the rich, aromatic reward.
Your next holiday meal or family gathering just found its new favorite centerpiece. Ready to wow your guests? Grab that crock pot and get cooking!
