Crockpot Ham

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or orange juice). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will create a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and richness.

Step 3: Add the Ham to the Crockpot

Place the ham into your crockpot, fat side up. This allows the fat to melt down into the meat during cooking, keeping the ham moist. Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, making sure it is evenly coated. Add the water or broth to the bottom of the crockpot to provide moisture as the ham cooks. The liquid will also help prevent the glaze from burning during the long cooking time.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham

Cover the crockpot and cook the ham on low heat for 4-6 hours for a boneless ham, or 6-8 hours for a bone-in ham. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) if using a meat thermometer. If you’re cooking a larger ham, it may take slightly longer, so be sure to check the temperature.

Step 5: Baste and Glaze (Optional)

Every hour or so, spoon some of the glaze over the ham to ensure it stays moist and flavorful. This will help the ham absorb the rich flavors of the glaze. If you prefer a caramelized, slightly crisp exterior, you can transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 5-10 minutes after cooking in the crockpot. This will help the glaze bubble and create a golden finish on the outside.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the ham is cooked to perfection, remove it from the crockpot. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the ham moist. Serve the ham slices with the remaining glaze from the crockpot drizzled over the top.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Ham

• Select the Right Ham: You can use either bone-in or boneless ham for this recipe. Bone-in ham is generally more flavorful and offers a traditional presentation, while boneless ham is easier to slice and serve.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This ensures the ham is cooked perfectly and stays juicy.
• Add a Twist to the Glaze: Feel free to customize the glaze by adding ingredients like pineapple juice, bourbon, or brown mustard for extra flavor.
• Make It Ahead: Crockpot ham is great for meal prep. If you’re hosting a large gathering, you can cook it a day or two in advance. Just reheat it in the crockpot or oven before serving.
• Serve with Sides: Crockpot ham pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or a simple green salad. It also makes great sandwiches the next day!

Why Crockpot Ham is Perfect for Holiday Meals

Crockpot ham is an ideal choice for holiday meals, whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion. It requires minimal effort, so you can focus on other dishes, guests, and celebrations. The slow cooker also helps keep the kitchen cool, freeing up oven space for other baked goods or side dishes. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, soups, or adding to casseroles.

Conclusion: A Stress-Free Way to Enjoy Ham

Making a delicious, tender crockpot ham has never been easier. With just a few simple ingredients and some hands-off cooking, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or preparing a family dinner, this crockpot recipe will save you time and effort while delivering a perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth ham.

Try it out next time you’re craving a comforting, hassle-free meal, and enjoy the tender, juicy goodness of crockpot ham!