Crockpot Ham Recipe

There’s something comforting about a slow-cooked ham. It’s one of those dishes that instantly makes any meal feel a little more special, but it’s surprisingly easy to make—especially when using the Crockpot.

I love making this Crockpot Ham because it takes hardly any effort, yet the flavor is so rich and satisfying. The combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in the glaze creates a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.

It’s a dish that works for both holidays and casual weeknight dinners, and leftovers are always a treat. I usually serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, and I’m always left with a plateful of smiles.

Behind the Recipe

I started making this Crockpot Ham after a busy holiday season when I realized I didn’t want to spend all day in the kitchen but still wanted something impressive for dinner. I had a fully-cooked ham in the fridge and was looking for a way to make it flavorful with minimal effort.

After a little experimenting with glazes, I came up with this combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. The result was a perfectly glazed ham with a rich, savory-sweet flavor that was just as good as any ham I’d spent hours preparing. Now, it’s a recipe I turn to whenever I need something simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort: The Crockpot does most of the work, leaving you with more time to enjoy the meal.
• Sweet and Savory: The glaze, made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard, offers the perfect balance of flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this ham fits every occasion.
• Juicy and Flavorful: The slow cooking process ensures the ham stays juicy while soaking in all the delicious glaze.
• Easy Clean-Up: Cooking in the Crockpot means fewer pots and pans to clean.
• Great Leftovers: This ham makes for amazing sandwiches or can be added to soups and salads the next day.
• Impressive and Budget-Friendly: A large ham can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use a Fully-Cooked Ham: Make sure to use a pre-cooked ham, as this recipe is meant for warming and glazing, not cooking from raw.
• Let the Ham Rest: After cooking, let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
• Monitor the Glaze: If you want a thicker glaze, cook the glaze in a pan for a few minutes before adding it to the ham.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure the ham fits comfortably in the Crockpot. If it’s too crowded, the glaze may not coat it evenly.
• Glaze Every Hour: Brush the ham with the glaze a couple of times during cooking for extra flavor and caramelization.
• Keep the Lid Closed: Try not to open the lid too often while cooking, as this will let out the heat and can affect the cooking time.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Crockpot/Slow Cooker: This is essential for slow cooking the ham.
2. Basting Brush: Use this to glaze the ham as it cooks.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
4. Sharp Knife: To slice the ham after cooking.
5. Small Bowl: To mix the glaze ingredients.

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. 2 Cups Pineapple Juice: The pineapple juice adds a tropical sweetness to the glaze and helps tenderize the ham.
2. Fully-Cooked Ham (7-8 lbs): A pre-cooked ham is ideal for this recipe because it’s already tender and only needs to be heated and glazed.
3. 1½ Tbsp Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a bit of floral flavor that complements the pineapple juice.
4. 1½ Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy complexity that balances the sweetness of the honey and pineapple juice.
5. 1½ Tbsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard gives the glaze a sharp, tangy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet ingredients.
6. 2 Cups Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor, which is key to creating a rich glaze.
7. 2 Tbsp Water: This is used to make the slurry that thickens the glaze.
8. 2 Tbsp Cornstarch: Cornstarch is used to thicken the glaze to a syrupy consistency.
9. Kosher Salt and Cracked Black Pepper to Taste: These seasonings enhance the flavors of the ham and glaze, bringing everything together.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Pineapple Juice: If you don’t have pineapple juice, orange juice works well as a substitute, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
• Honey: Maple syrup can be used as an alternative to honey for a different sweet profile.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also be used, but balsamic gives the glaze its signature depth.
• Brown Sugar: If you prefer a less intense sweetness, light brown sugar can be used instead of dark brown sugar.
• Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder can be used in place of cornstarch to make the glaze thicker if preferred.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pineapple Juice: Pineapple juice is a key ingredient in this recipe because it adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess that complements the savory ham. It also works to tenderize the meat, helping to break down some of the proteins. The juice’s natural acidity is a perfect match for the sweetness of brown sugar and the tartness of balsamic vinegar, creating a balanced and flavorful glaze.

Instructions for Making This Recipe

1. Prepare the Ham: Place the fully-cooked ham in the Crockpot, making sure it fits comfortably inside.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the pineapple juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Cook the Ham: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover the Crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours, basting the ham with the glaze every hour.
4. Make the Slurry: About 30 minutes before serving, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir it into the remaining glaze in the Crockpot and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the glaze has thickened.
5. Rest and Slice: Once the ham is done, remove it from the Crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve: Drizzle some of the glaze over the ham slices and serve with your favorite sides.

Crockpot Ham Recipe

This Crockpot Ham recipe creates a tender, juicy, and flavorful main dish perfect for any gathering. Sweetened with brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice, it pairs beautifully with a thickened glaze made from its own cooking juices. An easy, fuss-free delight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 10 people

Calories 667 kcal

Equipment

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: This is essential for slow cooking the ham.
• Basting Brush: Use this to glaze the ham as it cooks.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: To slice the ham after cooking.
• Small Bowl: To mix the glaze ingredients.

Ingredients

  

• 2 Cups Pineapple Juice: The pineapple juice adds a tropical sweetness to the glaze and helps tenderize the ham.
• Fully-Cooked Ham 7-8 lbs: A pre-cooked ham is ideal for this recipe because it’s already tender and only needs to be heated and glazed.
• 1½ Tbsp Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a bit of floral flavor that complements the pineapple juice.
• 1½ Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy complexity that balances the sweetness of the honey and pineapple juice.
• 1½ Tbsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard gives the glaze a sharp
  tangy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet ingredients.
• 2 Cups Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor
  which is key to creating a rich glaze.
• 2 Tbsp Water: This is used to make the slurry that thickens the glaze.
• 2 Tbsp Cornstarch: Cornstarch is used to thicken the glaze to a syrupy consistency.
• Kosher Salt and Cracked Black Pepper to Taste: These seasonings enhance the flavors of the ham and glaze bringing everything together.

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ham: Place the fully-cooked ham in the Crockpot, making sure it fits comfortably inside.
• Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the pineapple juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
• Cook the Ham: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover the Crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours, basting the ham with the glaze every hour.
• Make the Slurry: About 30 minutes before serving, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir it into the remaining glaze in the Crockpot and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the glaze has thickened.
• Rest and Slice: Once the ham is done, remove it from the Crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
• Serve: Drizzle some of the glaze over the ham slices and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

• For added flavor, stud the ham with whole cloves before spreading the brown sugar paste.
• Use freshly squeezed pineapple juice for a brighter, tangier glaze.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The slow cooking process ensures that the ham stays juicy and tender. The glaze thickens as it cooks, becoming rich and syrupy, coating the ham with a sweet and tangy layer.

The Dijon mustard adds just the right amount of sharpness to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar and honey, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. The pineapple juice gives it a light, fruity taste, while the balsamic vinegar adds depth and complexity.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Baste Frequently: The more you baste the ham with the glaze, the richer and more flavorful the exterior will be.
• Check for Doneness: While the ham is pre-cooked, it’s always a good idea to check that it’s heated through and tender before serving.
• Make It Extra Glazed: If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the glaze in a pan on the stove for a few minutes to reduce it before applying it to the ham.

What to Avoid

• Overcooking: Be sure to keep an eye on the ham and avoid cooking it too long, as it could dry out.
• Not Enough Glaze: Make sure you have enough glaze to coat the ham evenly. If needed, double the glaze recipe to ensure there’s plenty to work with.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-6 hours (on low)
• Total Time: 5-6 hours 10 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the glaze and store it in the fridge a day ahead of time.
• Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze leftover ham and glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve This Dish

Serve this flavorful ham with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze.

Side Dishes to Pair with Crockpot Ham

• Keto Roasted Asparagus
• Million Dollar Mashed Potatoes
• Brussels Sprouts

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Ham Sandwiches: Use leftover ham for sandwiches with your favorite condiments and greens.
• Ham and Cheese Omelet: Chop up the leftover ham and add it to an omelet for a quick and tasty breakfast.
• Ham Soup: Add the leftover ham to a pot of vegetable or potato soup for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• Serve with Extra Glaze: Keep some extra glaze on the side for drizzling over the ham or sides.
• Use a Sharp Knife: When slicing the ham, use a sharp knife to get clean, even slices.

Make It a Showstopper

To make this dish even more impressive, serve it on a large platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for garnish. Pair it with roasted potatoes and a side of green beans for a beautiful and complete holiday meal.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for some heat.
• Maple Glazed Ham: Swap the honey for maple syrup for a sweeter, more robust glaze.
• Citrus Ham: Add orange or lemon juice to the glaze for a citrusy twist.
• Herb-Infused Ham: Toss some rosemary, thyme, or sage into the Crockpot for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Apple Cider Ham: Substitute the pineapple juice with apple cider for a different sweet profile.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a bone-in ham?
   Yes, you can use a bone-in ham, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Can I make this in the oven instead of the Crockpot?
   Yes, you can bake the ham in the oven at 325°F for about 1.5-2 hours, basting occasionally.
3. Can I make this with a smaller ham?
   Yes, you can use a smaller ham. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly.
4. Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to cook alongside the ham.
5. How do I know when the ham is done?
   The ham is done when it’s heated through and tender, typically after 5-6 hours on low.
6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the leftover ham and glaze for up to 2 months.
7. What should I serve with this ham?
   Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
8. Can I make this ham without the glaze?
   Yes, but the glaze adds flavor and moisture to the ham.
9. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
   You can substitute with yellow mustard or even a little bit of honey mustard.
10. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of juice?
    Yes, you can blend fresh pineapple into a puree for the juice.