This Slow Cooker Holiday Ham is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. When dinnertime rolls around, you'll have an incredibly tender and flavorful dish waiting for you!
Did You Know?
Pro Tips
Storage & Meal Prep
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of ham works best in the slow cooker?
A bone-in, spiral-cut ham is ideal. The spiral cuts allow the glaze to penetrate between every slice, and the bone adds flavor during the slow cooking process.
2. How long does a ham take in the slow cooker?
A 7-9 pound ham takes about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The goal is an internal temperature of 140°F for a pre-cooked ham.
3. Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker?
Yes, add about ½ cup of liquid (pineapple juice, apple cider, or ginger ale) to the bottom. This creates steam that keeps the ham moist and helps the glaze caramelize.
4. What makes a good ham glaze?
Brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a touch of cloves or cinnamon create a classic sweet-savory glaze. Pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar adds brightness.
5. Should I glaze the ham before or during cooking?
Apply the glaze at the start and baste 2-3 times during cooking. This builds up multiple layers of sticky, caramelized flavor on the surface.
6. Can I cook a frozen ham in the slow cooker?
It is not recommended. Thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours first to ensure even cooking and food safety.
7. How do I keep the ham from drying out?
Cook on low heat, keep the lid on, and baste with the juices every hour. The slow cooker's sealed environment traps moisture better than an oven.
8. What size slow cooker do I need for a whole ham?
A 6-quart slow cooker fits most half hams (7-9 lbs). For a full ham, you may need an 8-quart or larger oval slow cooker.
9. What are the best side dishes for holiday ham?
Scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, cornbread, and dinner rolls are all classic holiday ham pairings.
10. How do I use leftover ham?
Make ham and potato soup, split pea soup, ham sandwiches, ham fried rice, or dice it into scrambled eggs and omelets for easy next-day meals.
Watch How to Make This
Slow Cooker Holiday Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Add to the slow cooker: Pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. Add the smashed garlic cloves and a few orange (or tangerine) slices. Whisk well.
- If your ham has a fat cap, score it in a diamond pattern (shallow cuts). Place the ham flat-side down in the slow cooker with the scored fat facing up. Spoon some of the liquid over the top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, until the ham is heated through and tender. Do not overcook - this is a fully cooked ham, so you are warming it gently and infusing flavor.
- Carefully remove the ham to a sheet pan. Strain 1 cup of the cooking liquid into a saucepan (straining is optional but makes the glaze smoother). Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon, and butter. Simmer 3-5 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Brush the glaze all over the ham, getting into the scored cuts. Broil 2-5 minutes, rotating as needed for even caramelization. Watch closely - sugar can burn fast.
- Rest the ham 10 minutes, then slice thick for the best holiday presentation. Drizzle extra glaze on top.
Notes
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
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