Spiral ham in a crock pot stays juicy when glazed and heated on low heat. Learning how to cook a spiral ham in a crock pot is the easiest way to serve a tender, flavorful ham without drying it out. This method frees up your oven and requires minimal hands-on work.
How To Cook A Spiral Ham In A Crock Pot
Using a slow cooker for your spiral ham keeps the meat moist and infuses it with sweet or savory flavors. The key is low, gentle heat and a good glaze. Follow this guide for perfect results every time.
Why Use A Crock Pot For Spiral Ham
Spiral hams are already fully cooked. You are just reheating them. A crock pot provides even, moist heat that prevents the slices from drying out.
- Frees up oven space for side dishes
- Requires less attention than oven roasting
- Keeps ham juicy for hours
- Makes clean up easier
What You Need
Gather these items before you start.
- One spiral sliced ham (6-8 pounds works best)
- Your favorite glaze ingredients (brown sugar, honey, mustard, etc.)
- A large slow cooker (6-7 quart size)
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Meat thermometer
Step-By-Step Guide For How To Cook A Spiral Ham In A Crock Pot
Step 1: Prepare The Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging. Discard the plastic cap or cover. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze stick better.
If your ham came with a glaze packet, you can use it or make your own. Homemade glaze usually tastes fresher.
Step 2: Make The Glaze
Combine these ingredients in a small bowl.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves or cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang.
Step 3: Place Ham In Crock Pot
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or line with a slow cooker liner. Place the ham flat side down into the crock pot. If the ham is too tall, you can cut a small piece off the top to make it fit, but most 6-8 pound hams fit standard 6-7 quart cookers.
Step 4: Apply The Glaze
Brush or pour about half the glaze over the top and sides of the ham. Try to get glaze between the slices if possible. Reserve the rest of the glaze for later.
Step 5: Cook On Low
Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on LOW heat. Do not use high heat because it can make the ham dry and tough.
Cook for about 4-5 hours for a 6-8 pound ham. The internal temperature should reach 140°F when measured with a meat thermometer. Since the ham is already cooked, you are just warming it through.
Step 6: Baste Halfway Through
After about 2 hours, open the lid carefully. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham. This adds another layer of flavor and keeps the surface moist.
Replace the lid quickly to retain heat.
Step 7: Check Temperature And Serve
At the 4 hour mark, check the internal temp. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. When it reads 140°F, the ham is ready.
Carefully lift the ham out of the crock pot using sturdy tongs or two large spatulas. Place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices settle.
Tips For The Best Results
These small adjustments make a big difference.
- Do not overcook. Spiral ham is already cooked, so you only need to heat it. Overcooking makes it dry.
- Use low heat only. High heat can cause the ham to become tough and the glaze to burn.
- Add a little liquid to the bottom of the crock pot if you want extra moisture. Use pineapple juice, apple juice, or water. About 1/2 cup is enough.
- If your ham is larger than 8 pounds, you may need to cut it in half or use a larger slow cooker. A 10-pound ham might not fit in a standard 6-quart cooker.
- Keep the lid on as much as possible. Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes and adds cooking time.
Flavor Variations For Glaze
Try these easy glaze ideas.
Honey Mustard Glaze
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
Maple Bourbon Glaze
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Mix any of these and apply the same way as the basic glaze.
What To Serve With Spiral Ham
This ham pairs well with many sides.
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Green beans or roasted asparagus
- Dinner rolls or cornbread
- Coleslaw or a simple green salad
- Scalloped potatoes or macaroni and cheese
The leftover ham juice in the crock pot can be used to make a simple gravy. Just strain the liquid, add a little cornstarch slurry, and simmer until thickened.
Storing And Reheating Leftovers
Leftover spiral ham stays good for 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil.
To reheat, place slices in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Cover and warm over low heat. You can also microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.
For longer storage, freeze the ham in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are pitfalls to skip.
- Using high heat. Always cook on low.
- Skipping the glaze. The glaze adds moisture and flavor.
- Not checking internal temperature. Overcooking ruins texture.
- Forgetting to rest the ham. Resting lets juices redistribute.
- Using a crock pot that is too small. The ham needs room for heat circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook a frozen spiral ham in a crock pot?
It is not recommended. Always thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator first. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven heating and food safety issues. Plan ahead and thaw for 24-48 hours.
How long does it take to cook a spiral ham in a crock pot?
For a 6-8 pound ham, cook on low for 4-5 hours. A smaller ham (4-5 pounds) takes about 3-4 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm 140°F internal temperature.
Do I need to add liquid to the crock pot?
Not necessarily. The ham releases its own juices as it heats. However, adding 1/2 cup of juice, broth, or water can help create more steam and keep the ham extra moist. It also makes a nice base for gravy.
Can I use a glaze packet that comes with the ham?
Yes, you can use the packet. But homemade glaze often tastes better and lets you control sweetness. If using the packet, mix it with a little water or juice to make it spreadable.
What size crock pot do I need for a spiral ham?
A 6-7 quart slow cooker works for most 6-8 pound hams. If your ham is larger, you may need an 8-quart cooker or cut the ham in half. The ham should fit with the lid closed securely.
Final Thoughts On How To Cook A Spiral Ham In A Crock Pot
This method is simple and reliable. The ham comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. You can prep it in minutes and let the slow cooker do the work.
Whether for a holiday dinner or a Sunday meal, this technique delivers. Just remember low heat, plenty of glaze, and a meat thermometer. Your guests will love it.
Now you know exactly how to cook a spiral ham in a crock pot. Give it a try for your next gathering. It is almost impossible to mess up, and the results are always impressive.