A fully cooked ham in a crock pot stays moist when heated on low with a glaze. Many people wonder exactly How To Cook A Fully Cooked Ham In Crock Pot without drying it out or making it taste bland. The slow cooker does all the work, keeping the ham tender and infusing it with sweet or savory flavors. You just need a few simple ingredients and some patience.
This method is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want a hands-off meal. The crock pot frees up your oven and prevents the ham from becoming tough. Follow these steps for a juicy, flavorful ham every time.
Why Use A Crock Pot For A Fully Cooked Ham
Using a slow cooker for a fully cooked ham is smart because it keeps the meat moist. The enclosed environment traps steam, which stops the ham from drying out. You also get to set it and forget it, which is great for busy cooks.
Another benefit is the glaze. The slow heat helps the glaze soak into the ham, creating a sticky, tasty coating. Plus, you can use the juices left in the pot to make a simple sauce or gravy.
Choosing The Right Ham For Your Crock Pot
Not all hams are the same. For this recipe, you need a fully cooked ham. Look for labels that say “fully cooked” or “ready to eat.” These hams are already cooked during processing, so you are just reheating them.
Size matters too. A 5 to 8 pound ham fits most standard 6 to 7 quart slow cookers. If your ham is larger, you may need to cut it in half or use a bigger pot. Spiral-cut hams work well because the slices allow the glaze to penetrate.
Bone-In Vs. Boneless Ham
Bone-in hams often have more flavor and stay juicier. However, they take up more space in the crock pot. Boneless hams are easier to slice and fit better, but they can be slightly drier. Both work fine for this method.
If you use a bone-in ham, make sure it fits with the lid closed. You might need to trim the ham or remove some meat to get a good seal.
How To Cook A Fully Cooked Ham In Crock Pot
Now for the main event. Here is the step-by-step process to get a perfect ham from your slow cooker. Follow these instructions closely for the best results.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 fully cooked ham (5-8 pounds)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice or apple juice
- Optional: whole cloves, pineapple rings, maraschino cherries
Step 1: Prepare The Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging. If it has a plastic skin or rind, peel it off. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze stick better.
If your ham is spiral-cut, be gentle so the slices stay together. Place the ham flat side down in the crock pot. If it does not fit, trim the bottom slightly or cut it into two pieces.
Step 2: Make The Glaze
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, honey, mustard, and pineapple juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This glaze will sweeten and caramelize the ham as it cooks.
Pour about half of the glaze over the ham. Use a brush or spoon to coat the surface evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Step 3: Cook On Low
Cover the crock pot with the lid. Set it to low heat. Cooking time depends on the ham size. For a 5-8 pound ham, cook for 4 to 6 hours on low. Do not cook on high, as this can dry out the meat.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ham should reach 140°F (60°C) for safe eating. Since it is already cooked, this is just a reheating guide.
Step 4: Baste And Glaze Again
About 30 minutes before serving, open the lid carefully. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham. If you want a thicker coating, you can spoon some of the juices from the bottom of the pot over the top.
Replace the lid and let it cook for the final 30 minutes. This step adds extra flavor and a shiny finish.
Step 5: Rest And Serve
Turn off the slow cooker. Use tongs or two forks to lift the ham out of the pot. Place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to settle.
Slice the ham against the grain for tender pieces. Spoon some of the leftover juices from the crock pot over the slices for extra moisture.
Tips For The Best Crock Pot Ham
Getting a great ham is easy with a few tricks. Here are some tips to improve your results.
Do Not Overcook
Since the ham is already cooked, you only need to warm it through. Overcooking makes it dry and stringy. Stick to the low setting and check the temperature early.
If your ham is smaller, like 3-4 pounds, reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours. Larger hams may need up to 7 hours. Use a thermometer to be safe.
Add Liquid To The Pot
Some people worry about the ham drying out. Adding a little juice or water to the bottom of the crock pot creates steam. This keeps the ham moist. The pineapple juice in the glaze also helps.
Do not add too much liquid. You want the ham to sit in a shallow pool, not swim. About 1/2 cup is enough for most hams.
Use A Glaze That Caramelizes
Sugar-based glazes brown nicely in the slow cooker. Brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup all work well. Mustard adds tang and helps the glaze stick.
If you want a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or some ground ginger to the glaze. It pairs well with the sweetness.
Flavor Variations For Your Ham
You can change the glaze to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas.
Pineapple And Cherry Glaze
Use pineapple juice in the glaze and top the ham with pineapple rings and cherries. Secure them with toothpicks. The fruit adds sweetness and looks festive.
Cook as directed. The fruit will soften and infuse the ham with tropical flavor.
Maple Mustard Glaze
Replace the honey with maple syrup. Use whole grain mustard for texture. This glaze is less sweet and more savory. It works well for dinner parties.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
Spiced Brown Sugar Glaze
Mix brown sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. Use orange juice instead of pineapple. This gives a warm, holiday taste.
Rub the spice mixture directly onto the ham before adding the liquid glaze.
What To Serve With Crock Pot Ham
Ham pairs with many side dishes. Here are some easy options.
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Macaroni and cheese
- Dinner rolls or cornbread
- Coleslaw or a simple salad
The ham juices can be used to make gravy. Strain the liquid from the pot, skim off fat, and thicken with a cornstarch slurry. Serve over the meat or potatoes.
Storing And Reheating Leftovers
Leftover ham keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
To reheat, place slices in a skillet with a little water or juice. Cover and warm over low heat. Or microwave in short bursts. Do not overheat or it will dry out.
Leftover ham is great in soups, sandwiches, omelets, or casseroles. Use it within a few days for best quality.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are mistakes to watch for.
Using A Ham That Is Not Fully Cooked
Some hams are labeled “cook before eating.” These need to be fully cooked in the oven or on the stove. Do not use them in a slow cooker without pre-cooking, as the low heat may not reach safe temperatures fast enough.
Always check the label. If it says “fully cooked,” you are good to go.
Lifting The Lid Too Often
Every time you open the lid, heat escapes. This adds cooking time and can make the ham dry. Only open it to baste at the end or check temperature.
Trust the process. The crock pot does the work for you.
Skipping The Rest Time
Cutting into the ham right away releases juices. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the meat reabsorbs the moisture. This makes slices juicier.
Resting also makes carving easier. The meat firms up slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cook A Frozen Fully Cooked Ham In The Crock Pot?
It is not recommended. Frozen ham takes too long to heat through in a slow cooker. Thaw it in the fridge first for best results. If you must cook from frozen, use the oven instead.
How Long Does It Take To Cook A Fully Cooked Ham In A Crock Pot?
For a 5-8 pound ham, cook on low for 4-6 hours. Smaller hams take less time. Always check the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Do I Need To Add Water To The Crock Pot For Ham?
You do not need plain water if you use a glaze with juice. The ham releases some liquid as it heats. If you are worried about sticking, add 1/4 cup of juice or water to the bottom.
Can I Use A Glaze Packet From The Store?
Yes, store-bought glaze packets work. Follow the package directions and add it to the ham. You may still want to add a little juice for moisture.
What If My Ham Is Too Big For The Crock Pot?
Cut the ham into two or three pieces. Stack them or place them side by side. Make sure the lid fits snugly. You can also trim the ham to fit.
Cooking a fully cooked ham in a crock pot is simple and reliable. The slow cooker keeps the meat moist while the glaze adds sweetness. You get a tender, flavorful ham with minimal effort. Try this method for your next holiday meal or Sunday dinner. Your family will love the results.