If you’re looking for the easiest way to make a holiday ham, this Crock Pot Ham recipe is the ultimate choice. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish turns out tender, juicy, and full of rich flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion where you want a centerpiece dish that wows everyone with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
Hands-Off Cooking: Using the crock pot allows for slow, even cooking, keeping the ham moist and flavorful.
Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice creates the perfect glaze.
Effortless Prep: Just a few minutes of preparation and your ham is ready to cook.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
7-pound ham: Fully cooked, bone-in or boneless.
2 cups pineapple juice: Adds sweetness and a subtle tang.
1 cup brown sugar: Creates a caramelized, sweet crust.
½ cup maple syrup: Enhances the richness and depth of flavor.
Optional Additions
Pineapple slices: For a decorative and flavorful topping.
How to Make Crock Pot Ham
- Prep the Ham
Unwrap the ham and place it in your crock pot. Make sure it fits snugly, with the flat side down.
- Add the Sweet Rub
Rub the brown sugar over all sides of the ham, pressing it into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Add the Liquids
Pour the pineapple juice and maple syrup over the ham. If using pineapple slices, arrange them over the top of the ham and secure them with toothpicks.
- Slow Cook the Ham
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. The ham will warm through while soaking up the sweet glaze.
- Baste for Extra Flavor
About an hour before serving, baste the ham by spooning the juices from the crock pot over the top. This step ensures the ham stays moist and flavorful.
- Let It Rest
Carefully remove the ham from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Choose the Right Ham: Opt for a fully cooked ham for best results. Spiral-cut hams work well for even flavor distribution.
Don’t Overcook: Slow cooking on low heat ensures the ham stays juicy without drying out.
Glaze Boost: For extra caramelization, broil the ham in the oven for 5 minutes after slow cooking.
Keep It Warm: Use the crock pot’s “warm” setting if you need to keep the ham warm for a buffet or serving later.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious crock pot ham with:
Mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes
Honey-glazed carrots
Green bean casserole
Homemade dinner rolls
Add a drizzle of the leftover juices as a glaze over the slices for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal (depending on the type of ham used)
Servings: 10-12
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: This recipe transforms a simple ham into a show-stopping centerpiece with hardly any effort.
Versatile: Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or potlucks.
Unforgettable Glaze: The combination of pineapple, brown sugar, and maple syrup is irresistible.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
A: Yes! A spiral-cut ham works wonderfully and absorbs the glaze more evenly.
Q: What if my ham is smaller?
A: Adjust the cooking time slightly. A 5-pound ham may need 3-4 hours on low.
Q: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
A: Absolutely! Honey works as a great substitute and adds its own unique flavor.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Ham recipe is a game-changer for holiday cooking. With its tender texture and sweet, tangy glaze, it’s sure to be the highlight of your meal. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, freeing up your oven and making your life so much easier. Once you try this method, you’ll never make ham any other way!