Baked Ham Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Let’s talk about ham-the kind of dish that practically announces ’celebration’ the moment it hits the table. Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday dinner, a festive holiday feast, or just a special weeknight treat, a perfectly cooked ham can elevate any meal. But here’s the secret: the slow cooker. This underappreciated kitchen hero takes all the guesswork out of getting a ham that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Using a slow cooker to bake your ham isn’t just about convenience-it’s about transforming a simple cut of meat into something extraordinary. The gentle, consistent heat ensures the ham absorbs all the flavors you add, making each bite succulent and rich. Plus, the slow cooker keeps your kitchen cool, your oven free for sides, and your cleanup to a minimum.

So if you’ve been intimidated by baking a ham-or worse, you’ve been stuck with a dry, rubbery one-stick with me. I’ll guide you step by step, offer ingredient swaps, tips, and even customization ideas to make your ham uniquely yours. By the end, you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece without any stress.

Baked Ham Slow Cooker Recipe

This is not your ordinary baked ham recipe. We’re talking about a slow cooker method that locks in moisture, creates a perfectly caramelized exterior, and delivers mouthwatering flavor. Imagine a ham that practically melts in your mouth, infused with a subtle sweetness, a touch of spice, and a beautiful golden glaze-all done with minimal effort.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need to get started. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples, and the substitutions are flexible.

• Ham: 4-6 lb pre-cooked ham (bone-in or boneless, spiral-cut works beautifully)
• Brown sugar: ½ cup, packed, for sweetness and caramelization
• Honey or maple syrup: ¼ cup, to create a sticky, glossy glaze
• Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons, for a tangy kick
• Pineapple juice or orange juice: ½ cup, adds fruity acidity to balance the sweetness
• Ground cloves: ¼ teaspoon, optional but traditional
• Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon, for depth of flavor
• Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly cracked preferred
• Whole cloves: optional, for studding the ham and visual appeal

Instruction Guide

Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is simple, but timing and layering flavors matter. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best results:

1. Prepare Your Ham

   • Remove any packaging and discard excess liquid.
   • If the ham has a thick layer of fat, score it in a diamond pattern to allow the glaze to seep in.

2. Mix Your Glaze

   • In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, pineapple or orange juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and ground cloves. Stir until smooth.

3. Glaze The Ham

   • Rub a small amount of the glaze all over the ham. Don’t worry-you’ll pour more over it as it cooks.

4. Place In The Slow Cooker

   • Position the ham cut-side down (if spiral-cut) or fat-side up in your slow cooker.
   • Pour the remaining glaze over the top.

5. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Spiral-cut hams may cook faster.

6. Optional Caramelization

   • For a golden, slightly crisp exterior, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

7. Serve

   • Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides.

Ingredient Swaps

Life happens, and sometimes you don’t have the exact ingredients on hand. Here are some easy swaps:

• Ham: Spiral-cut or smoked turkey breast works if you want a leaner option.
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or dark muscovado sugar for a richer caramel flavor.
• Honey or maple syrup: Agave nectar or molasses in a pinch (molasses gives a deeper, almost rum-like sweetness).
• Dijon mustard: Yellow mustard, whole-grain mustard, or even a teaspoon of horseradish for a spicy twist.
• Pineapple juice/orange juice: Apple juice or pear juice for a milder fruity taste.
• Ground cloves: Allspice or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic flavor.

Helpful Tips

To get that perfect slow cooker baked ham every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overcook: Even though it’s a slow cooker, overcooking can dry out the edges. Keep an eye on internal temperature.
• Add liquid: A bit of juice in the bottom keeps the ham moist and creates a natural, tasty glaze.
• Rotate if needed: If your slow cooker is small, rotate the ham halfway through cooking for even heat distribution.
• Save the drippings: After cooking, the juices are perfect for basting, sauces, or even a light gravy.
• Prep ahead: Glaze and prep the ham the night before; it marinates overnight for even more flavor.

Customization Ideas

Make this ham uniquely yours with a few creative tweaks:

• Tropical flair: Add crushed pineapple chunks or a splash of rum to the glaze.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or chili powder for a subtle heat.
• Herbal twist: Sprinkle fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage over the ham before slow cooking.
• Savory-sweet combo: Use a mustard-maple glaze with a handful of chopped pecans on top for crunch.
• Citrus explosion: Zest a lemon or orange into the glaze for bright, aromatic notes.

FAQs

Can I Cook A Frozen Ham In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook a frozen ham in a slow cooker, as it may not reach a safe internal temperature evenly. Always thaw the ham in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking to ensure even heating and food safety.

What Size Ham Is Best For A Slow Cooker?

A boneless ham between 4 and 6 pounds works best for most standard slow cookers. Ensure the ham fits comfortably in the slow cooker without overcrowding, allowing heat to circulate evenly.

How Long Should I Cook Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Cook a fully cooked ham on low for 4-6 hours, or until heated through. For an uncooked ham, cooking time will be longer, typically 6-8 hours on low, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, adding liquid helps keep the ham moist and prevents it from drying out. Common options include water, apple juice, pineapple juice, or a combination of these along with a small amount of mustard or brown sugar for flavor.

Should I Glaze The Ham Before Or After Slow Cooking?

It is recommended to apply the glaze during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking. This prevents the sugars from burning while still allowing the glaze to caramelize and enhance the flavor of the ham.

Can I Use Leftover Ham From The Slow Cooker?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Slice the ham and store it in an airtight container with some of the cooking juices to maintain moisture.

How Do I Prevent The Ham From Drying Out In A Slow Cooker?

To prevent dryness, cook the ham on low heat, add sufficient liquid, cover the slow cooker tightly, and avoid overcooking. Basting occasionally with the cooking juices also helps retain moisture.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Ham?

Yes, root vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions can be added. Place them under the ham so they absorb the flavors during cooking. Keep in mind that denser vegetables may require longer cooking to become tender.

Do I Need To Score The Ham Before Slow Cooking?

Scoring the ham is optional but recommended if you plan to add a glaze. Scoring allows the glaze and seasonings to penetrate the surface, enhancing flavor and creating an attractive presentation.

Can I Use A Spiral-sliced Ham In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, spiral-sliced hams can be cooked in a slow cooker. Be gentle when handling the slices to avoid separating them, and add liquid to keep the ham moist. Apply glaze carefully to prevent the slices from drying out.