A ham in the crockpot turns out fork-tender and infused with a sweet, savory glaze. If you are wondering how to cook ham in crockpot, you have come to the right place. This method is simple, hands-off, and perfect for holidays or a Sunday dinner.
Using a slow cooker frees up your oven for other dishes. It also keeps the ham incredibly moist. You do not need to watch it closely, just set it and forget it for a few hours.
How To Cook Ham In Crockpot
Before you start, you need to pick the right ham. A fully cooked ham works best for the slow cooker. You are really just reheating it and adding flavor.
Choosing The Right Ham
- Look for a spiral-cut ham or a boneless ham. Spiral cuts are pre-sliced, which makes serving easy.
- A bone-in ham has more flavor, but a boneless ham is simpler to slice.
- Avoid raw or fresh hams for this recipe. They need a longer cooking time and higher temperatures.
- Check the weight. A 6 to 8 pound ham fits nicely in a standard 6-quart crockpot.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 fully cooked ham (6-8 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth for the bottom
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect crockpot ham. The process is very forgiving, so do not stress.
- Prepare the ham. Remove the ham from its packaging. Pat it dry with paper towels. If it has a thick skin or rind, you can trim it off, but it is not required.
- Make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, cloves, and pepper. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
- Place the ham in the crockpot. Put the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker. If it is spiral-cut, try to keep the slices together.
- Apply the glaze. Spoon or brush the glaze all over the ham. Get it into the slices if possible. Reserve a little bit of glaze for later.
- Add liquid. Pour the water or broth into the bottom of the crockpot. Do not pour it over the ham, as it will wash off the glaze.
- Cook low and slow. Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. A 6-pound ham usually takes about 4 hours on LOW.
- Baste occasionally. Every hour or so, spoon the juices from the bottom over the ham. This keeps it moist and builds the glaze.
- Check for doneness. Since the ham is already cooked, you are just heating it through. Use a meat thermometer. It should reach 140°F (60°C) in the thickest part.
- Glaze again. In the last 30 minutes, brush the reserved glaze over the ham. This gives it a shiny finish.
- Rest and serve. Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle.
Tips For The Best Results
- Do not overcook the ham. It will become dry and stringy. Stick to the recommended times.
- Use a liner for easy cleanup. A slow cooker liner catches the sticky glaze.
- If you want a thicker glaze, remove the ham when done. Pour the juices into a saucepan. Simmer on the stove until it thickens.
- Add pineapple rings or maraschino cherries on top for a classic look. Use toothpicks to hold them in place.
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or cayenne to the glaze.
How To Store Leftover Ham
Leftover ham is a gift. It can be used in soups, sandwiches, or breakfast dishes. Store it properly to keep it fresh.
- Let the ham cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Slice it first for easier thawing.
What To Serve With Crockpot Ham
Ham pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some classic options.
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Green beans or steamed broccoli
- Macaroni and cheese
- Sweet potato casserole
- Dinner rolls or cornbread
- Coleslaw or a fresh garden salad
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Avoid these common pitfalls.
- Using a ham that is too big. It will not fit under the lid. The lid must close tightly for the slow cooker to work.
- Skipping the liquid. Without liquid, the glaze can burn and stick to the pot. A little broth prevents this.
- Opening the lid too often. Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes. This adds cooking time.
- Not trimming the skin. A thick rind can prevent the glaze from penetrating. Trim it if you want more flavor.
- Using a pre-glazed ham. Some hams come with a glaze packet. You can still use them, but the homemade glaze is better.
Variations To Try
Change up the flavors with these simple swaps.
Maple Mustard Ham
Replace the brown sugar with 1/2 cup maple syrup. Use whole grain mustard instead of dijon. Add a pinch of nutmeg.
Pineapple Glazed Ham
Use pineapple juice instead of apple cider vinegar. Add 1 cup of crushed pineapple to the glaze. Top with pineapple rings.
Spicy Brown Sugar Ham
Add 2 tablespoons of sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze. Use smoked paprika for extra depth.
Honey Garlic Ham
Replace the mustard with 4 minced garlic cloves. Use 1/2 cup honey and 1/4 cup soy sauce. Omit the cloves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about cooking ham in a slow cooker.
Can I cook a raw ham in the crockpot?
It is not recommended. Raw hams need to reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The slow cooker may not get hot enough fast enough. Stick with fully cooked hams for safety.
How long does it take to cook a ham in a crockpot?
For a 6 to 8 pound ham, plan on 4 to 6 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH. Always check the internal temperature with a thermometer.
Do I need to add water to the crockpot for ham?
Yes, add about 1/4 cup of water or broth to the bottom. This creates steam and prevents the glaze from burning. It also keeps the ham moist.
Can I use a spiral-cut ham in the crockpot?
Yes, spiral-cut hams work great. They are pre-sliced, so the glaze gets into every layer. Just be gentle when placing it in the pot so the slices stay together.
What if my ham is too big for the crockpot?
If the ham does not fit, you can cut it in half. Place both halves in the pot. Or, buy a smaller ham. A 6-pound ham is a good size for most slow cookers.
Final Thoughts
Cooking ham in a crockpot is one of the easiest ways to prepare a large meal. The slow cooker does all the work. You get a tender, flavorful ham with minimal effort.
Remember to use a fully cooked ham, make a simple glaze, and cook on low for the best results. Basting helps, but it is not essential. The ham will still be delicious.
This method is perfect for busy days. You can prep everything in the morning and come home to a ready meal. It also keeps your kitchen cool, which is great for summer gatherings.
Do not be afraid to experiment with different glazes. Ham is very forgiving. Try adding fruit juices, spices, or even a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist.
Leftovers are a bonus. Use them in omelets, quiches, or ham salad. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy your crockpot ham with family and friends.
Now you know exactly how to cook ham in crockpot. Give it a try for your next holiday or weekend dinner. You will be glad you did.