Slow Cooker Ham Recipe: There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of ham slowly cooking all day, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering anticipation. Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just to meal prep for the week, this slow cooker ham recipe is your ultimate go-to. The beauty of using a slow cooker? It practically does all the work for you. All you need is a handful of ingredients, a little prep time, and a few hours of patience.
What makes this recipe even better is that it’s beginner-friendly and nearly foolproof. The ham stays juicy, tender, and full of flavor—no oven juggling or constant checking required. And with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be serving up the most delicious ham without any stress. So, let’s get started!
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Ham?
Let’s be real: oven-roasting ham can be a bit of a hassle. From uneven cooking to drying out the meat, there are a lot of ways it can go wrong. That’s where the slow cooker steps in like a kitchen superhero. It gently simmers your ham for hours, locking in moisture and letting the flavors sink deep into every bite.
The low, steady heat of the slow cooker means there’s no risk of burning the glaze or overcooking the meat. Plus, you free up your oven for other dishes during big meals or holiday gatherings. And who doesn’t love a hands-off approach to cooking? Set it and forget it—that’s the slow cooker motto.
Types of Ham You Can Use
Bone-In vs. Boneless Ham
- Bone-In Ham: Adds more flavor and moisture. Great for larger gatherings and if you want to use the bone later for soups or stews.
- Boneless Ham: Easier to slice, quicker to cook. Ideal for smaller groups or when you’re short on prep time.
Spiral-Cut vs. Whole Ham
- Spiral-Cut Ham: Pre-sliced, which makes serving a breeze. Glaze seeps into every slice for added flavor.
- Whole Ham: Better if you want to control how thick the slices are. Usually juicier because it’s less exposed to air.
Choose what suits your needs best—this recipe works beautifully with either type!
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker
Size matters when it comes to your slow cooker. A 6 to 8-quart slow cooker is usually perfect for most medium to large hams (about 6 to 8 pounds). If your ham doesn’t fit snugly, you might need to trim it down or cut it into chunks.
Look for a model that:
- Has a tight-fitting lid
- Offers both low and high settings
- Has a “keep warm” feature
A reliable slow cooker ensures even cooking and keeps your ham tender from edge to core.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your base list of ingredients for the perfect slow cooker ham:
- 1 fully cooked ham (6–8 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
These pantry staples come together to make a sweet, sticky, flavorful glaze that’s perfect for soaking into your ham.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
Want to elevate your ham even more? Try adding these:
- Whole cloves (inserted into the ham for a traditional look and spiced aroma)
- Sliced oranges or pineapples (layered on top or around the ham)
- Apple cider vinegar (a splash for a tangy kick)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
Customizing your ham with these extras can make it truly unforgettable.
How to Prepare the Ham Before Cooking
Before you toss it in the slow cooker, give your ham a little love.
Trimming and Scoring
- If the ham has a thick layer of fat, trim it down to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Score the fat in a crisscross diamond pattern. This not only looks gorgeous but also helps the glaze seep in deeper.
Removing Excess Moisture
- Pat the ham dry with paper towels.
- This helps the glaze stick better and keeps the texture just right.
These steps may seem small, but they make a big difference in the end result.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Ham
Here’s where the magic happens. Follow this guide step by step and you’ll end up with a ham that’s sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 1: Place Ham in the Slow Cooker
Place the ham flat side down into the slow cooker. If the ham is too tall to fit, trim a small portion off the top or place it on its side. Make sure the lid can close securely.
Step 2: Add Glaze or Liquid
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, and mustard until well combined. Pour the glaze over the ham, letting it drip into any scored cuts so the flavor soaks in deeply.
Step 3: Cover and Set Temperature
Cover the slow cooker tightly with the lid. Set it to LOW heat for the most tender and evenly cooked results.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, depending on the size of the ham. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—each time you open it, heat escapes and cooking time increases.
Step 5: Glaze Again (Optional)
During the last 30 minutes, spoon some of the cooking juices over the ham to boost flavor. For a caramelized finish, you can transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil for 5–10 minutes.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the ham rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices. Slice and serve with extra glaze on the side.
Sweet, juicy, and effortless—slow cooker ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser 🍖✨
Homemade Ham Glaze Recipe Ideas
One of the best things about cooking ham in the slow cooker is that it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of glazes. Whether you like it sweet, tangy, or spicy, there’s a glaze for you. Here are three popular options that you can whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry:
1. Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glaze
This is the classic combo for ham—sweet, tropical, and totally delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Pour it over the ham in the slow cooker or baste it on during the last hour.
2. Honey Mustard Glaze
Perfect for a little tang and a lot of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
- Stir together all ingredients and use as a glaze halfway through cooking or at the end.
- This is a great option if you’re looking for something a little less sweet and more savory.
3. Maple Dijon Glaze
This one’s a little fancy but super easy—and it brings that cozy maple warmth.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients together.
- Pour over the ham for a bold, sweet-savory flavor.
Feel free to experiment or mix and match to make your own signature glaze!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Slow Cooker Ham
Getting that perfect ham isn’t just about the glaze. Here are some key tips that can take your ham from good to outstanding:
- Don’t overcook: Even though slow cookers are forgiving, you can still overdo it. Stick to the suggested time based on your ham’s weight.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ham is fully cooked at 140°F. Check near the end to make sure it’s heated through.
- Baste if you can: Every couple of hours, spoon the juices over the ham to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Trim fat but don’t remove all of it: A little fat adds moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Line the slow cooker with foil or a slow cooker liner: It makes cleanup a breeze.
How Long to Cook Ham in a Slow Cooker
The cooking time depends on the size and type of your ham, as well as whether it’s bone-in or boneless. Here’s a handy reference:
| Ham Size | Type | Cook Time on LOW |
|---|---|---|
| 2–4 pounds | Boneless | 3–4 hours |
| 4–6 pounds | Bone-in or Spiral | 4–5 hours |
| 6–8 pounds | Bone-in Whole | 5–6 hours |
If you’re using HIGH heat, you can generally cut the cooking time by about one-third, but LOW is recommended for juicier results.
How to Store Leftovers Properly
Cooked ham stores surprisingly well if you handle it correctly. Here’s how to make sure your leftovers stay fresh and tasty:
- Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keeps well for 3–5 days.
- Freezer: Slice or dice the ham, place in freezer bags with the air removed, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Pro tip: Label the date before freezing so you don’t lose track of how long it’s been in there.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Ham
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here are a few delicious ideas that will make your ham stretch even further:
- Ham and Cheese Omelet – Quick breakfast win.
- Ham Fried Rice – A great way to use up leftover rice too.
- Ham and Bean Soup – Especially if you used a bone-in ham.
- Ham Sandwiches – Classic, simple, and satisfying.
- Ham Pasta Bake – Toss it into your favorite creamy pasta for a rich dinner.
These are just a few starting points. Leftover ham is super versatile and works in so many dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Buying the wrong size ham: Make sure it fits in your slow cooker before you start prepping.
- Skipping the glaze: It adds tons of flavor. Even a quick mix of brown sugar and mustard can elevate the dish.
- Overcooking: It’s already fully cooked—you’re just reheating and infusing flavor.
- Not resting before slicing: Cutting too early can make all the juices run out. Give it 10–15 minutes.
- Forgetting to baste: While optional, it really boosts flavor and moisture if you have time to do it once or twice during cooking.
Avoid these traps, and your ham will be the star of the show every single time.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Ham Recipe
1. Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?
It’s not recommended. Always thaw the ham completely in the fridge before slow cooking to ensure even cooking and safe internal temperature.
2. Should the ham be cooked with the flat side down?
Yes! Placing the flat (cut) side down helps the juices stay in and makes for a juicier end result.
3. What’s the best glaze for picky eaters?
A simple brown sugar and honey glaze usually pleases most palates. Avoid strong flavors like mustard if you’re unsure.
4. Can I use apple juice instead of pineapple juice?
Absolutely! Apple juice adds a nice sweetness and pairs beautifully with ham.
5. How do I know when the ham is done?
Since most hams are pre-cooked, you’re heating it to about 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp near the bone or thickest part.
Conclusion
Slow cooking ham isn’t just convenient—it’s kind of magical. The way the flavors meld, the tenderness of each slice, and the aroma that fills your home make this a dish that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a simple Sunday dinner, this slow cooker ham recipe is the kind of comfort food that brings people together.
With a few ingredients and this foolproof step-by-step guide, you’re well on your way to becoming the ham expert in your circle. Don’t be afraid to play around with glazes or toss in your favorite spices. Trust the process, trust your slow cooker, and you’ll have something truly special on the table.
