When you think of a delightful, hassle-free main dish for a family gathering or holiday celebration, a slow-cooked ham is hard to beat. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, along with the tenderness achieved through slow cooking, makes this crockpot ham recipe an absolute winner. Imagine walking into your home with the aroma of ham wafting through the air, and knowing that the preparation took minimal effort. This is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together.
Why We Love This Crockpot Ham Recipe
There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this crockpot ham recipe. First and foremost, the hands-off cooking method allows you to focus on your guests or other dishes without being tied to the stove. The slow cooker tenderizes the meat beautifully, giving it a melt-in-your-mouth texture and infusing it with flavors that are truly irresistible.
The blend of pineapple juice, honey, and balsamic vinegar results in a glaze that elevates the dish, adding both an aromatic sweetness and a savory depth that will have everyone eagerly reaching for seconds. Additionally, cooking the ham in a crockpot ensures even heating, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. You’ll have a sophisticated dish without the stress, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Ingredients about Crockpot Ham Recipe
To craft this delectable crockpot ham, gather the following ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- Fully-cooked ham, approximately 7 to 8 pounds
- 1½ tbsp honey
- 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1½ tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
How to Make Crockpot Ham Recipe Directions
Creating this scrumptious crockpot ham is straightforward, and you’ll definitely appreciate how easy it is. Start by preparing your slow cooker:
- Layer some sliced onions at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. This not only adds flavor but also creates a cushion for the ham.
- Unwrap your fully-cooked ham, carefully discarding any flavoring packets it might come with. These packets typically aren’t necessary and can clutter your dish.
- Check the ham for any plastic caps surrounding the bone. If you find any, remove them to ensure safe cooking.
- Now pour the pineapple juice into the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful base that will keep the ham moist and succulent.
- Next, prepare your glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Mix it well to form a thick paste. This glaze is the secret sauce that brings the dish to life.
- Coat the entire surface of the ham with the glaze. Make sure you cover it evenly to allow every bite to be infused with that delightful taste.
- Place the ham flat-side down into the slow cooker. This positioning helps it absorb the juiciness from the pineapple juice, keeping it tender.
- Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set the heat to LOW. The ham should cook for about 4-6 hours or until its internal temperature reaches 140°F. A meat thermometer will be your best friend here.
- You have the option to flip the ham halfway through the cooking process and baste it with the juices. This extra step ensures an even greater flavor saturation. Baste again about an hour before it’s finished cooking for enhanced taste.
- Once done, carefully transfer the ham to a serving platter. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy ham when sliced.
- Meanwhile, skim any excess fat from the cooking juices left in your slow cooker. Strain the juices into a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Whisk the slurry into the simmering juices, stirring continuously until thickened. This thickened glaze will make for a perfect drizzling sauce.
- Finally, serve the ham warm, either topped with the thickened glaze or served on the side for your guests to add as they wish.
Trust me; your family will be singing your praises as they savor every bite.
How to Serve Crockpot Ham Recipe
Serving your crockpot ham is just as enjoyable as cooking it. Once you’ve placed the beautifully glazed ham on a platter, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, to add a pop of color. You can slice it into thick or thin pieces, depending on personal preference.
It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. The glaze from the ham can also be drizzled over side dishes for added flavor.
To enhance your presentation even further, consider using platters or serving dishes that complement the colors of your meal. This little touch can elevate the dining experience, making it feel truly special.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Ham Recipe
Here are some expert tips to ensure your crockpot ham turns out beautifully:
- Opt for High-Quality Ham: While most hams are fully cooked, choosing a high-quality product can make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Adjust the Glaze to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the glaze ingredients. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can add warmth, while using maple syrup instead of honey can give a different sweetness profile.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid opening the lid while cooking. Every time you lift it, heat escapes, which can extend cooking time and affect the ham’s moisture.
- Cook According to Weight: Always refer to the weight of your ham and adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller ham might need less time, while a larger one might need more.
- Baste for Maximum Flavor: Basting not only enhances the flavor but keeps the ham moist. Try to baste every hour for the best results.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your crockpot ham is not just good but truly exceptional.
How to Store Crockpot Ham Recipe
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Properly storing your crockpot ham will help maintain its flavor and texture. Start by allowing the ham to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to prevent any drying out.
Store the wrapped ham in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just ensure it is well wrapped, as air exposure can lead to freezer burn. Frozen ham should be consumed within three months for the best flavor.
To reheat, slice portions from the ham and place them in the oven at a low temperature. You may drizzle some pineapple juice over it to keep it moist while reheating.
Variation of Crockpot Ham Recipe
While this classic recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can try:
- Spicy Maple Glaze: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick. The heat will balance beautifully with the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Herb-Infused Ham: Before coating it with the glaze, rub fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme onto the surface for an aromatic twist.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate coconut milk into the pineapple juice for a richer flavor with a tropical flair.
- Apple Cider Variation: Swap out the pineapple juice for apple cider for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
These variations will keep your crockpot ham exciting and allow you to cater to various taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Ham Recipe
What type of ham should I use for this crockpot ham recipe?
You should choose a fully-cooked ham, which includes options like a bone-in or boneless variety. Bone-in hams tend to provide more flavor while cooking.
Can I cook a smaller ham in the crockpot?
Absolutely! Just adjust your cooking time based on the weight of your ham. Smaller hams may require less time, while larger ones will need more.
What if I can’t find balsamic vinegar?
If balsamic vinegar is not available, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tang.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze and store it in the refrigerator. On the day of cooking, just follow the directions to coat the ham and cook it in the crockpot.
Crockpot Ham
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pineapple Juice
- 1 fully-cooked ham approximately 7 to 8 pounds
- 1.5 tablespoons Honey
- 1.5 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
- 1.5 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 cups Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
Instructions
- Layer sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Unwrap the fully-cooked ham and discard any flavoring packets.
- Check for and remove any plastic caps surrounding the bone.
- Pour pineapple juice into the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Mix well to form a thick paste.
- Coat the entire surface of the ham with the glaze.
- Place the ham flat-side down into the slow cooker.
- Secure the lid and set the heat to LOW. Cook for 4-6 hours until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Baste the ham halfway through cooking and again about an hour before it’s finished.
- Transfer the ham to a serving platter and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Skim excess fat from the cooking juices and strain into a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk into the simmering juices until thickened.
- Serve the ham warm, topped with the thickened glaze or on the side.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!