Slow cooker ham is a simple, hands-off way to prepare a tender, flavorful ham for family meals or holidays. Using a slow cooker ensures the meat stays juicy while absorbing glazes or seasonings.
Ingredients (Typical for a 4–6 lb ham)
- 4–6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg) fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
- ½–1 cup brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup
- ½–1 cup pineapple juice, orange juice, or apple cider
- 2–3 tbsp Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
- Optional spices: cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger
Cooking Method
- Prepare the ham:
- Score the surface in a diamond pattern (if not pre-sliced)
- Optional: Stud with whole cloves for extra flavor
- Place in slow cooker:
- Pour juice and glaze ingredients over the ham
- Cover with lid
- Cook:
- Low: 4–6 hours
- High: 2–3 hours
- Ham is pre-cooked, so you are mainly heating and glazing
- Optional finishing:
- For a caramelized top, transfer ham to a baking dish and broil 3–5 minutes after slow cooking
- Serve:
- Slice and serve with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad
Tips
- Glaze variations: Mix brown sugar, mustard, honey, and a splash of citrus juice for a classic sweet-savory glaze
- Keep it moist: Pour some cooking liquid over ham halfway through cooking
- Leftovers: Store in the refrigerator for 3–5 days; use in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles
Slow cooker ham is easy, flavorful, and perfect for stress-free holiday or weeknight meals, letting the slow cooker do the work while you focus on sides.
I can also provide a step-by-step slow cooker ham recipe with a honey-mustard glaze if you want.
Do you want me to do that?
