How To Cook A Ham In The Crockpot

ByLily

Crockpot hams cook gently over several hours, absorbing flavors from added liquids and seasonings while staying moist and tender. If you want to know how to cook a ham in the crockpot, the process is easier than you might think.

You do not need a smoker or a fancy oven setup. A slow cooker does most of the work for you.

This guide walks you through choosing the right ham, prepping it, and cooking it until it practically falls apart.

Why Use A Slow Cooker For Ham

A slow cooker traps steam and heat in a small space. That means the ham stays juicy instead of drying out.

You also free up your oven for other dishes. That matters a lot during holidays or big family meals.

Cleanup is simple too. One pot, one mess, and leftovers that keep well.

Choosing The Right Ham

Not all hams are the same. The type you buy changes how you cook it and how long it takes.

Fully Cooked Ham

Most hams sold in stores are fully cooked. You are basically reheating them to a safe temperature and adding flavor.

These work great in a crockpot. A 5 to 7 pound ham fits in most standard slow cookers.

Uncooked Or Fresh Ham

Fresh ham needs to reach 145°F internally before it is safe to eat. It also takes longer to cook.

If you use a fresh ham, plan for more time and check the temperature with a meat thermometer.

Spiral Cut Vs Whole

Spiral cut hams are already sliced. They absorb glaze well but can dry out faster.

A whole boneless or bone-in ham holds moisture better. Either one works in a crockpot.

How To Cook A Ham In The Crockpot

Here is the basic method. It works for most fully cooked hams between 4 and 8 pounds.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • 1 fully cooked ham, 4 to 8 pounds
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice or apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves or cinnamon (optional)

Step By Step Instructions

  1. Place the ham flat side down in the crockpot. If it does not fit, trim it or cut it into two pieces.
  2. Pour the juice over the ham. This keeps the meat moist during the long cook.
  3. Mix brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices in a bowl. Spread half the mixture over the ham.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. For a larger ham, go 6 to 8 hours.
  5. Baste the ham with the juices every hour or so if you are home. This adds flavor and moisture.
  6. In the last 30 minutes, brush on the rest of the glaze.
  7. Check the internal temperature. It should hit 140°F for fully cooked ham.
  8. Let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

Quick Tip For Busy Days

You can skip the basting step. The ham will still taste good, just a bit less glazed.

Just add all the glaze at the start and let the slow cooker do its thing.

Flavor Variations To Try

Once you master the basic recipe, you can change the flavors to match your meal.

Maple Bourbon Glaze

Swap the honey for maple syrup. Add two tablespoons of bourbon to the juice.

This gives a deeper, warmer taste that pairs well with roasted vegetables.

Pineapple Brown Sugar

Use pineapple juice and add a can of drained pineapple rings on top of the ham.

The rings caramelize slightly and look nice on the serving plate.

Spicy Honey Mustard

Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mustard mix. It adds heat without overpowering the ham.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even a simple recipe can go wrong. Here are the mistakes people make most often.

  • Overcooking the ham. Fully cooked ham only needs to reach 140°F.
  • Not adding liquid. The ham needs moisture to steam and stay tender.
  • Using a ham that is too big for the pot. It will cook unevenly.
  • Skipping the rest time. Resting lets the juices settle back into the meat.
  • Cutting the ham right away. You will lose juice and the slices will dry out.

Serving And Storing Leftovers

Let the ham rest, then slice against the grain for the most tender pieces.

Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. The juices in the pot make a great sauce.

How To Store Leftover Ham

Put leftover ham in an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

You can also freeze sliced ham for up to 2 months. Wrap it tight to prevent freezer burn.

Ways To Use Leftover Ham

  • Add diced ham to scrambled eggs or omelets
  • Make ham and cheese sandwiches
  • Stir into soup, beans, or pasta
  • Top a baked potato with ham and cheese

Final Thoughts

Cooking a ham in a crockpot is one of the easiest meals you can make. The slow cooker handles the hard part.

Pick a good ham, add a simple glaze, and let it cook low and slow. You will get tender, flavorful meat every time.

Try one of the flavor variations next time. A small change can make the same dish feel brand new.

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