When the holidays roll around, a craving for comfort food often takes over, and nothing embodies that cozy warmth quite like a beautifully glazed Crock Pot Ham. The scent of sweet honey and tangy mustard wafts through the kitchen as this scrumptious dish slowly transforms from a simple ingredient into a succulent centerpiece that brings everyone together.
I stumbled across this recipe during a family gathering, and it quickly became the highlight of our feast. Picture this: friends and family gathered around a table, laughter in the air, and that perfectly caramelized, spiral-cut ham stealing the show. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its rich flavor but also in its effortless preparation.
With minimal effort, you can create an impressive dish that not only pleases the palate but also makes your home feel like the heart of comfort and joy. Grab your crock pot, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering journey that will elevate your mealtime from mundane to magical!
Why is Crock Pot Ham a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: This recipe brings out the best in spiral-cut ham, with a perfect blend of honey, brown sugar, and mustard.
Effortless cooking: Simply set it and forget it. This dish is made with minimal prep time and lets your crock pot do the heavy lifting.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or holiday feasts, it’s a surefire way to impress your guests and create lasting memories.
Versatile serving options: Serve it sliced on a platter, or turn leftovers into sandwiches or hearty casseroles for meal prep.
Time-saving: Why spend hours in the kitchen? This Crock Pot Ham lets you enjoy more time with loved ones while it cooks to perfection!
Crock Pot Ham Ingredients
• Gather all you need for a delicious Crock Pot Ham experience!
For the Ham
- 8 pounds spiral cut ham – A pre-sliced ham ensures even glaze coverage and effortless serving.
For the Glaze
- 8 ounces orange or pineapple juice – Adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Caramelizes beautifully, contributing to that irresistible sticky glaze.
- 1/3 cup honey – Enhances sweetness and gives the glaze a rich depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Brings a subtle tang that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – Adds complexity with its slightly sweet, savory notes.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps thicken the glaze to that perfect consistency for brushing over your ham.
Now you have everything ready to create a delightful Crock Pot Ham that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy the process and the mouthwatering results!
How to Make Crock Pot Ham
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Pour juice into the bottom of your 7-8 quart crock pot. This will create a flavorful base that keeps the ham moist throughout the cooking process.
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Combine ingredients in a small bowl. Mix the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar until smooth to ensure a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to the ham.
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Glaze the ham. Pour the sweet mixture over the top of the ham, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Place the ham in the crock pot, flat side down, to allow for even cooking.
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Cover tightly if necessary. If the ham sticks out of the crock pot a bit, cover with a triple layer of foil and tuck it under the edges. Then, insert it gently into the cooker, ensuring a snug fit.
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Cook to perfection. Cover and set the cooker on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the ham is tender and infused with flavor.
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Transfer to platter. Once done, carefully move the ham to a large platter and tent it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the glaze.
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Strain the juices. Pour the cooking juices from the crock pot into a saucepan over medium heat, capturing all that delicious flavor.
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Create the glaze. Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Add this slurry to the simmering juices in the saucepan to thicken the glaze.
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Simmer until thickened. Allow the glaze to simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until it reaches the desired thickness to coat the ham perfectly.
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Brush and serve. Finally, brush the thickened glaze generously over the ham, and get ready to serve this delightful dish!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Crock Pot Ham ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and stress during busy days or special gatherings! You can mix the glaze ingredients (brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar) up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the orange or pineapple juice into the crock pot, add the ham, and pour the prepared glaze over the top. Cook as directed, and you’ll enjoy a flavorful, succulent ham that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh on the day of serving!
Crock Pot Ham Variations
Get ready to customize your delightful Crock Pot Ham experience with these exciting twists and swaps!
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Pineapple Glaze: Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the savory ham.
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Maple Syrup Kick: Replace honey with maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor that adds depth to the glaze.
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Spicy Option: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a bit of heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile significantly.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the glaze for that delightful smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the ham.
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Cider Vinegar Zing: Swap balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar to introduce a tangy brightness that harmonizes with the ham’s savory qualities.
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Brown Sugar Alternative: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a slightly caramelized and unique flavor that’s a great option for those looking for a healthier choice.
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Fruit Garnish: Top the cooked ham with sliced oranges or pineapple before serving for an appealing presentation and an extra burst of flavor. These fresh elements bring a lovely color contrast to your dish!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the ham is cooled down before sealing to maintain its juicy flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap pieces of baked Crock Pot Ham tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring no air is trapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a covered dish at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, keeping it moist with a splash of juice or broth.
Wrap Well: To maintain the ham’s succulent texture, always double-wrap it if freezing. This helps lock in flavors and moisture, so every bite is as delicious as the first!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Ham?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings to complement your delicious ham.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture and buttery flavor of these mashed potatoes balance the sweetness of the ham beautifully.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots tossed in honey bring out the earthy flavors while adding a vibrant pop of color to your plate.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness of the ham, providing a delightful texture.
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Green Bean Almondine: With a light sauté of garlic and almonds, these green beans offer a nutty crunch and freshness that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
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Baked Mac and Cheese: Indulgent and cheesy, this classic comfort dish creates a filling side that kids and adults will devour.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts the sweetness of the ham, elevating the flavors and adding a festive touch to the meal.
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Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for sopping up the glaze, making each bite of ham even more enjoyable.
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Red Wine: A nice glass of red wine enhances the meal’s rich flavors, bringing an elegant touch to your family gathering.
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Chocolate Cake: To finish on a sweet note, a rich chocolate cake provides a decadent dessert that leaves everyone wanting more! Each element of your meal is designed to create warmth and bring a smile to the table.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Ham
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Choose Quality Ham: Selecting a high-quality spiral cut ham makes a world of difference in flavor and tenderness. Look for one that’s well-marbled for juiciness.
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Check for Glaze Coverage: Avoid missing spots by spreading the glaze evenly over the entire ham. Use a spatula to ensure every inch is coated for maximum flavor.
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Tight Seal: If your ham is too tall for your crock pot, tightly covering the top with foil prevents it from drying out while cooking. This step maintains moisture and tenderness.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect results, use a meat thermometer to check that your ham reaches at least 140°F before serving. This ensures it’s warmed through and safe to eat.
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Save the Leftovers: Don’t let extras go to waste! Leftover Crock Pot Ham is perfect for sandwiches, breakfast dishes, or even a hearty ham and bean soup. Get creative with your meal prep!
Crock Pot Ham Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham should I use for Crock Pot Ham?
Absolutely! For the best results, select a high-quality, fully cooked spiral cut ham. Look for one that’s well-marbled, as this enhances the tenderness and flavor during cooking. The spiral cut makes it easier to apply the glaze evenly and serve effortlessly.
How should I store leftover Crock Pot Ham?
After enjoying your delicious ham, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing to keep that juicy flavor intact. You can safely store it for up to 3-4 days; simply reheat with a splash of juice to keep it moist!
Can I freeze Crock Pot Ham for later?
Very much so! For longer storage, wrap your leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat at 325°F, covered, for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my glaze isn’t thickening?
If you find your glaze isn’t thickening as you hoped, combine a tablespoon of cornstarch with some cold water to create a slurry and gradually add it to the simmering juices. Stir continuously for about 4-5 minutes until it reaches that perfect, luscious consistency. Remember, patience is key!
How can I tell when the ham is done cooking?
For perfectly cooked ham, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 140°F. In addition to checking the temperature, look for tender, juicy meat that is easily pulled apart with a fork. This ensures it’s warm and delicious for serving!
Can pets eat Crock Pot Ham?
While a bit of plain ham is generally safe for dogs, avoid giving them the glaze or any rich ingredients like honey or mustard, as they can be harmful. Always check with your vet before sharing any human food with your pets to ensure it’s safe for them!
Irresistible Crock Pot Ham: Slow-Cooked Flavor Sensation
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour juice into the bottom of your 7-8 quart crock pot to create a flavorful base.
- Combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze the ham by pouring the mixture over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Cover tightly with foil if necessary and place the ham flat side down in the crock pot.
- Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours until the ham is tender.
- Transfer the ham to a large platter and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Strain cooking juices into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then add to simmering juices.
- Simmer until thickened for 4-5 minutes, stirring often.
- Brush the thickened glaze generously over the ham before serving.