Perfectly Juicy Slow Cooker Ham with Brown Sugar

Creating a delicious, juicy ham doesn’t require hours of active preparation or complicated ingredients. This incredibly simple slow cooker ham recipe uses just two ingredients to produce a showstopping centerpiece for your holiday table or Sunday dinner. The low, slow cooking method ensures the meat stays tender while the brown sugar creates a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the savory ham. Whether you’re hosting Easter, Christmas, or simply want a special meal with minimal effort, this recipe delivers impressive results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham Recipe

When it comes to holiday cooking or feeding a crowd, simplicity is key. This slow cooker ham recipe has become a fan favorite for several compelling reasons:

• Incredibly Easy: With just two ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once you place everything in the slow cooker, you’re free to focus on other dishes or activities.
• Consistently Juicy Results: The slow, gentle cooking process ensures your ham stays moist and tender.
• Budget-Friendly: Ham is often on sale during holiday seasons, making this an economical option for feeding a crowd.
• Versatile Leftovers: Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, soups, omelets, and many other dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need two basic ingredients:

• 1 (8 pound) bone-in spiral-cut ham: Pre-cooked, spiral-cut hams work best as they absorb the flavors well. The size can be adjusted based on your needs, but an 8-pound ham typically serves about 10-12 people.
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar: This creates a sweet caramelized coating that balances the saltiness of the ham. You can use light or dark brown sugar based on your preference.

That’s it! No need for fancy glazes, pineapple rings, or complex marinades. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural flavors of the ham to shine while the brown sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness.

Equipment Needed

The equipment requirements are just as simple as the ingredients list:

• Slow cooker/crockpot: You’ll need one large enough to fit your ham. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended for an 8-pound ham.
• Measuring cup: For measuring the brown sugar.

If your slow cooker isn’t large enough to accommodate the ham, you can trim some portions of the ham to make it fit, but be sure not to overfill your slow cooker as this can affect cooking time and results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly juicy slow cooker ham:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spread approximately 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a sweet foundation that will caramelize during cooking and infuse the ham with flavor.

2. Position the Ham

Place your spiral-cut ham on top of the brown sugar layer with the flat, cut side facing down. This positioning allows the ham to sit securely in the slow cooker and helps the sweet flavor penetrate between the slices. If your ham doesn’t fit perfectly, you may need to trim some portions to make it fit properly in your slow cooker.

3. Cover and Cook

Put the lid on your slow cooker and cook the ham on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your ham and the specific heat of your slow cooker. Since most hams are pre-cooked, you’re primarily heating it through and allowing the flavors to develop.

4. Baste Occasionally (Optional)

If you’re available during the cooking process, you can occasionally spoon the collected juices and melted brown sugar over the ham. This helps distribute the flavors and creates an even glaze. However, this step is entirely optional – the ham will still be delicious without basting.

5. Check for Doneness

Your ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Since most hams are pre-cooked, you’re mainly looking to heat it through completely. The meat should be tender and easily pull apart along the spiral cuts.

6. Rest and Serve

Once done, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Spoon some of the sweet cooking liquid over the ham before serving for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations and Additions

While this recipe is delicious in its simplicity, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences:

Sweet Variations

• Pineapple Ham: Add a can of crushed pineapple or pineapple slices to the slow cooker for a traditional sweet and tangy flavor.
• Maple Brown Sugar: Replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
• Honey Glazed: Add 1/4 cup of honey to the brown sugar for a different sweet note.

Savory Additions

• Mustard Glaze: Mix 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard with the brown sugar for a sweet-savory balance.
• Apple Cider: Pour 1/2 cup of apple cider into the slow cooker for additional moisture and flavor.
• Clove-Studded: Insert whole cloves into the ham for a traditional spiced flavor.

Spice Enhancements

• Cinnamon-Spiced: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the brown sugar.
• Holiday Spice: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon each of nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon.
• Bourbon-Infused: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the slow cooker for a rich, complex flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some classic and creative accompaniments to consider:

Traditional Sides

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Green bean casserole
• Sweet potato casserole
• Dinner rolls or biscuits
• Roasted brussels sprouts
• Macaroni and cheese

Lighter Options

• Spring salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus
• Steamed vegetables
• Quinoa pilaf
• Fresh fruit salad

Storage and Leftovers

One of the benefits of preparing a large ham is enjoying the leftovers for days afterward. Here’s how to properly store and use your leftover ham:

Refrigeration

Leftover ham can be refrigerated for 3-5 days. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers. Be sure to save any remaining juices from the slow cooker – they make an excellent flavor base for soups or sauces.

Freezing

Ham freezes exceptionally well. Portion the meat into meal-sized packages, wrap tightly in freezer paper or plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags with the air removed. Properly stored, frozen ham can last for 1-2 months without losing quality. Label each package with the date for easy reference.

Creative Leftover Ideas

Transform your leftover ham into delicious new meals:

• Ham and Bean Soup: Simmer the ham bone with white beans, carrots, and onions for a hearty soup.
• Ham Fried Rice: Add diced ham to stir-fried rice with vegetables for a quick meal.
• Breakfast Casserole: Layer ham with eggs, cheese, and potatoes for a satisfying breakfast bake.
• Ham Salad: Finely chop ham and mix with mayonnaise, relish, and seasonings for sandwiches.
• Split Pea Soup: Use the ham bone and leftover meat to make this classic comfort food.
• Scalloped Potatoes: Layer thin potato slices with ham and cheese for a delicious side dish or main course.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

These helpful tips will ensure your slow cooker ham turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right ham: Pre-cooked, spiral-cut hams work best for this recipe as they absorb the sweet flavors between the slices.
• Don’t add salt: Hams are already quite salty, so additional salt isn’t necessary.
• Monitor the temperature: If possible, use a meat thermometer to check when the ham reaches 140°F.
• Adjust for size: For smaller hams, reduce the cooking time accordingly. A good rule of thumb is about 30 minutes per pound on low.
• Create height: If your ham is too tall for your slow cooker, create a ring of aluminum foil at the bottom to lift the ham slightly, allowing the lid to close properly.
• Save the bone: The ham bone adds incredible flavor to soups and stocks, so don’t discard it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a fresh ham instead of a pre-cooked one?

A: This recipe is specifically designed for pre-cooked hams. Fresh ham requires different cooking times and methods to ensure it’s properly and safely cooked through.

Q: What if my ham is too big for my slow cooker?

A: If your ham doesn’t fit, you can trim portions off to make it fit or cut it into large chunks and layer them in the slow cooker. The trimmed pieces can be frozen for later use in soups or casseroles.

Q: Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?

A: Yes, boneless ham works well too. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so check for doneness earlier.

Q: Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?

A: No, the ham will release moisture as it cooks, and the brown sugar will create a delicious glaze without additional liquid.

Q: How many people will an 8-pound ham serve?

A: As a general rule, plan for about 3/4 pound per person for a bone-in ham. An 8-pound ham should serve approximately 10-12 people.

Q: Can I cook the ham on high to save time?

A: It’s best to cook ham on low to ensure even heating and to prevent the meat from drying out. If you must cook it on high, monitor it carefully and expect it to take about half the time.

Nutrition Information

While the exact nutrition values will vary depending on the specific ham used, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings from an 8-pound ham):

This slow cooker ham recipe proves that sometimes the simplest preparations yield the most delicious results. With just two ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a centerpiece-worthy ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a special Sunday dinner, this method delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your loved ones rather than fussing in the kitchen.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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