There’s nothing quite like the warm scent of a slow-cooked ham filling the house, wrapping us in comfort like a favorite blanket. I discovered this Crock Pot Ham recipe during a particularly busy weekend, when I craved a hearty meal but had time for little else beyond setting it and forgetting it. The result? A beautifully glazed, spiral-sliced ham that looked almost too good to eat—and tasted even better!
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about ease and satisfaction. With only a few minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you’ll be free to focus on other joys of the day, whether it’s family time, tackling a good book, or enjoying some much-deserved relaxation. Each slice is tender, infused with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s sure to impress, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or a delightful Sunday dinner. Ready to indulge in this effortless culinary delight? Let’s get started!
Why choose Crock Pot Ham for dinner?
Unmatched convenience: With minimal prep, you can set this dish and let your slow cooker handle the rest, freeing you up for more important activities.
Incredible flavor: The sweet honey glaze, a combination of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard, elevates the ham to new taste heights.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish makes an impressive centerpiece for any occasion, ensuring your guests leave happy and satisfied.
Versatile leftovers: Enjoy juicy ham slices in sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast frittatas the next day!
Family-approved: It’s a recipe that both kids and adults will love, adding warmth to your dining table.
Essential Crock Pot Ham Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious slow-cooked masterpiece:
For the Ham
- 5 lb fully-cooked ham, spiral-sliced – A perfectly-sized ham that ensures tender, flavorful slices and is ready to enjoy without fuss.
For the Glaze
- ½ cup brown sugar – This adds a rich sweetness, balancing beautifully with the savory flavors of the ham.
- ½ cup honey – A touch of natural sweetness that enhances the overall glaze, making it irresistibly sticky and delightful.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – This mustard brings a tangy kick, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the sugars in your Crock Pot Ham.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – A pinch of warmth and depth that adds a hint of spice, elevating the glaze beyond ordinary.
- ¼ cup water – Helps to dissolve the sugars and create a luscious glaze that seeps into the spiral slices.
Pop these simple ingredients into your shopping list, and you’re well on your way to crafting a memorable family meal!
How to Make Crock Pot Ham
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Place the ham: Start by positioning the spiral-sliced ham in the basin of your slow cooker with the spiral side facing up. This allows the glaze to seep into the delicious slices.
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Mix the glaze: In a small saucepan over high heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and water. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth, sweet mixture.
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Glaze the ham: Once your glaze is ready, carefully pour it over the ham, ensuring it fills in between the spiral slices. This will enhance every bite with mouthwatering flavor.
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Cook the ham: Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F—tenderness is key here!
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Ham
• Choose the Right Ham: For the best results, opt for a fully-cooked spiral-sliced ham, ensuring it’s ready to serve once heated.
• Glazing Secrets: Don’t rush the glaze; let the brown sugar dissolve completely to create a smooth blend that soaks into the ham.
• Avoid Overcooking: Monitor time closely; cooking too long can dry out the ham. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F for perfect tenderness.
• Flavor Boost: Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor in your Crock Pot Ham.
• Storage Tips: Enjoy leftovers by storing them in an airtight container; they can be used in sandwiches, salads, or breakfast dishes!
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to save time on busy days, this Crock Pot Ham is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and water, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also place the spiral-sliced ham in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over it, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, remove the ham from the fridge, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work! This way, you’ll have a delicious and stress-free meal waiting for you, just as succulent as if you made it the same day.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Ham
Fridge: Keep leftover Crock Pot Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh for your next meal.
Freezer: Wrap ham slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to freeze for up to 2 months. This prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen ham overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Storage Tip: For optimal taste, try to use any leftover ham as soon as possible; the sooner you enjoy it, the fresher it will be!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Ham?
Creating the perfect meal around this delightful slow-cooked center will leave your family asking for seconds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes add a cozy texture that soaks up the delicious glaze. A comforting classic that pairs perfectly with any holiday ham.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of the carrots mirrors the flavors of the ham, ensuring each bite is filled with joyful harmony. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are ideal for mopping up the mouthwatering glaze from the ham. Serve with a touch of butter for an irresistible sidekick.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little gems bring a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the ham. Toss them with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt for roasting perfection.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw adds a crunchy element that balances the meal, providing a delightful zing with every bite. A fantastic choice for summer gatherings!
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet and tangy contrast, making each forkful a bright note against the ham’s rich flavors. It’s a nutritious choice everyone will love!
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Sparkling Cranberry Juice: This bubbly drink can be a refreshing non-alcoholic option, adding a festive touch that complements the meal. Perfect for toasting family moments!
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Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of sweet, nutty pecan pie rounds out the meal beautifully, providing a decadent finish that everyone will remember.
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Cheese Platter: Assemble a selection of cheeses for a little nibble before the main event; the creamy flavors will intrigue your guests and tantalize their taste buds.
Variations & Substitutions for Crock Pot Ham
Feel free to put your own spin on this delectable recipe, making it uniquely yours with just a few simple tweaks!
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Brown Sugar Swap: Use coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that’s also a touch healthier.
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Honey Alternative: Maple syrup is a fantastic substitute for honey, imparting a subtle yet delightful flavor.
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Mustard Variance: For a spicy kick, try using whole grain mustard in place of Dijon—you’ll love the added texture!
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Sugar-Free Option: Replace the brown sugar and honey with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol for a lower-calorie version.
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Herb-Infused Glaze: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Pineapple Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the glaze for a tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with ham.
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Spiced Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder will give your glaze a satisfying kick, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure that your mustard is gluten-free, and use gluten-free soy sauce for added flavor if desired.
Crock Pot Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for a fully-cooked, spiral-sliced ham. These hams are convenient, as they are ready to serve once heated through, making them perfect for your Crock Pot Ham recipe. Look for a ham that appears moist and has a nice marbling of fat for extra flavor.
How should I store leftover ham?
Very good question! After enjoying your delicious Crock Pot Ham, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days, ensuring you can savor those tender slices for another meal.
Can I freeze leftover ham?
Absolutely! To freeze your leftover ham, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double-layer method prevents freezer burn and keeps that delicious flavor intact. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen ham?
Great question! Once you’ve thawed your Crock Pot Ham in the fridge, reheat it in the oven at 325°F. Place the ham slices in a baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps preserve its juiciness.
How do I avoid overcooking the ham?
Very important! To ensure your Crock Pot Ham remains juicy and flavorful, monitor the cooking time closely. Aim for a final internal temperature of 140°F. Cooking it too long can dry it out, so be sure to check about 30 minutes before the suggested cooking time ends.
Are there any dietary considerations for my ham?
Indeed! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to check the label on your ham for any additives or allergens. Also, be mindful of any glaze ingredients, especially the Dijon mustard, which could contain allergens like eggs or gluten. If needed, you can substitute with a gluten-free mustard alternative!
Mouthwatering Crock Pot Ham with Sweet Honey Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by positioning the spiral-sliced ham in the basin of your slow cooker with the spiral side facing up.
- In a small saucepan over high heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and water. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Once your glaze is ready, carefully pour it over the ham, ensuring it fills in between the spiral slices.
- Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.