Ham Roast Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Alright, let’s talk about ham roast-one of those dishes that instantly says ’comfort food’ while also carrying a hint of festive flair. But here’s the thing: roasting a ham in the oven can sometimes be a bit intimidating. You’re worried about drying it out, overcooking it, or just getting the glaze right. Enter the slow cooker-the unsung hero of effortless, tender, fall-apart ham.

Using a slow cooker is a game-changer. You’re essentially letting the flavors marry themselves over hours, leaving you free to tackle other parts of your meal, or simply enjoy a cup of tea while your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma. The magic? Moist, flavorful ham that practically melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by a rich, savory-sweet glaze.

Whether it’s a holiday, a cozy Sunday dinner, or just a ’treat yourself’ kind of meal, this method makes a ham roast approachable and foolproof. And the best part? You can tailor it to your taste with different glazes, spices, and flavor boosters.

Ham Roast Slow Cooker Recipe

Let’s dive right in. This recipe is all about simplicity meeting flavor. The goal: a tender, juicy ham with a golden, caramelized glaze, all made without turning on the oven. Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you sip your favorite beverage and enjoy the smell of deliciousness.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need. I’ve broken it down into the essentials and the glaze, so you don’t miss a thing:

Ham

• 4-6 pound bone-in or boneless ham roast (pre-cooked is best)
• 1 cup of water, apple juice, or a combination (for slow cooker base)

Glaze

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for that festive hint)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Flavor Boosters

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced fresh garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness
• Pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, or fresh herbs for garnish

Instruction Guide

Here’s where the magic happens. Follow this step-by-step guide for that perfectly cooked ham:

1. Prepare Your Ham

   • If your ham has a thick layer of fat, score it in a criss-cross pattern to help the glaze penetrate.
   • Place the ham in your slow cooker, fat side up.

2. Add Liquid

   • Pour your water, apple juice, or mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. This keeps the ham moist and prevents sticking.

3. Make The Glaze

   • In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, mustard, vinegar or juice, cloves, and pepper.
   • Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.

4. Apply Glaze

   • Brush half of the glaze over the ham. Reserve the rest for later.

5. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (for pre-cooked ham).
   • About 30 minutes before the end, brush the remaining glaze over the ham for a sticky, shiny finish.

6. Optional Finishing Touch

   • For a slightly caramelized top, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes. Watch it carefully to avoid burning!

Ingredient Swaps

Life happens, and you might not have every ingredient on hand. No worries-you can swap things around without losing flavor:

• Ham: Spiral-cut or half ham works fine; just adjust cooking time slightly.
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or granulated sugar can replace it.
• Honey or maple syrup: Agave nectar, molasses, or even apricot preserves work beautifully.
• Mustard: Yellow mustard or even a bit of horseradish for a kick.
• Apple cider vinegar: Lemon juice or white wine vinegar works in a pinch.
• Spices: Nutmeg, allspice, or ginger can replace cloves for a different aromatic profile.

Helpful Tips

Here are some insider tips to make your slow-cooked ham roast shine:

• Avoid overcooking: Ham is already cooked. Slow cooking just warms and flavors it. Overcooking can make it dry.
• Keep it moist: Always cook with a little liquid in the slow cooker.
• Glaze layering: Brushing glaze at multiple stages ensures depth of flavor and a beautiful sticky finish.
• Check the thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper heating without overcooking.
• Rest before slicing: Let the ham sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.

Customization Ideas

Get creative and make this ham your own:

• Fruit-forward: Add pineapple rings, orange slices, or cherries under the glaze.
• Savory-herb: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage to the slow cooker liquid.
• Spicy kick: Mix a teaspoon of chili flakes or hot sauce into your glaze.
• Bourbon glaze: Add a splash of bourbon for depth and warmth.
• Sweet & tangy: Combine apricot preserves with mustard for a balanced glaze.

FAQs

What Type Of Ham Is Best For A Slow Cooker Recipe?

Bone-in, fully cooked hams are ideal for slow cooker recipes because they retain moisture and flavor better. Spiral-cut hams also work well, as the slow cooker allows the glaze to penetrate the meat.

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

Yes, adding liquid such as water, broth, or apple juice is recommended. It helps keep the ham moist and prevents the meat from drying out during the slow cooking process.

How Long Should I Cook A Ham In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking times vary based on the size of the ham and the slow cooker setting. Generally, a 4-6 pound ham takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Always check internal temperature to ensure it reaches 140°F for fully cooked hams.

Should I Glaze The Ham Before Or After Slow Cooking?

It’s best to add a glaze during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking. Adding it too early can cause the sugars in the glaze to burn and create a bitter flavor.

Can I Use Leftover Ham From A Slow Cooker Recipe?

Absolutely. Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for 2-3 months. It can be used in soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and salads.

Do I Need To Cover The Ham Tightly In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, covering the ham tightly ensures that steam circulates inside, keeping the meat moist and tender. Using a slow cooker lid is sufficient; no need for additional foil unless the lid doesn’t fit properly.

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

Yes, root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions can be added. Place them at the bottom so they cook evenly and absorb the flavorful juices from the ham.

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

Ensure there’s enough liquid, avoid overcooking, and keep the slow cooker on low heat for a gentler cooking process. Basting the ham occasionally with the cooking juices also helps maintain moisture.

Can I Use A Frozen Ham In The Slow Cooker?

It’s not recommended to cook a fully frozen ham directly in the slow cooker, as it may remain in the unsafe temperature zone too long. Thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator before slow cooking.

What Are Some Popular Glaze Options For Slow Cooker Ham?

Popular glazes include brown sugar and mustard, honey and pineapple, maple syrup with cloves, or a mixture of orange juice and brown sugar. These glazes add flavor and help create a caramelized finish on the ham.