ham in crock pot recipe
The Best ham in crock pot recipe
I’ve been using this crock pot ham recipe for years, and honestly, it’s one of those things that works every single time. It’s perfect for big gatherings—birthdays, holidays, or just a Sunday dinner when you want to impress without stressing. My husband always says it’s the only thing that makes him forget how tired he is after a long week, and my husband’s right. The smell alone is enough to make the whole house feel cozy, and the fact that it’s packed with flavor but still pretty healthy? That’s a win in my book. It’s got all the good stuff—natural sugars, lean protein, and that perfect balance of sweet and savory without any of the heavy, processed junk. Plus, it’s so easy to prep ahead, so you can just throw it in and forget about it until it’s ready to serve. My kids don’t even notice it’s been cooking for hours; they just eat it straight from the crock pot like it’s some kind of magic. And honestly? That’s the best part.
Slow Cooker Ham & White Bean Stew
A hearty, flavorful stew featuring tender ham, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless ham, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups (400g) canned white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a slow cooker, combine cubed ham, olive oil, diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, sliced celery, white beans, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well. -
2
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the ham is tender and the vegetables are soft. -
3
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice. Remove from heat and set aside. -
4
Once the stew is done, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the garlic butter sauce and the peas. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a bay leaf with the ham.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal.
Variations
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Use cannellini beans instead of white beans for a different texture.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Ham & White Bean Stew Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ham & White Bean Stew
1. How do I properly season the ham before putting it in the crock pot?
For best flavor, rub the ham generously with a mixture of salt (about 1–2 tbsp per pound), black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. If you want a glaze, mix honey, brown sugar, mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, then brush it on before cooking.
2. What temperature and time should I set the crock pot for cooking a ham?
For a 10–14 lb bone-in ham, use the low setting (250°F) for 6–8 hours (or high setting 4–5 hours). For a shredded or pulled ham, cook it until it reaches 160°F internally. If it’s bone-in, aim for 165°F to ensure safe, tender meat.
3. Can I add other ingredients while the ham is cooking in the crock pot?
Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans, or include onions, garlic, and broth for extra flavor. For a glazed ham, mix a sticky sauce (honey, mustard, BBQ sauce) and pour it over halfway through cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent soggy ingredients.
4. How do I check if the ham is fully cooked and safe to eat?
Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the leg—it should reach 160°F (71°C) for bone-in hams and 145°F (63°C) for boneless hams. If the ham is bone-in, it should be 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked through. The meat should pull apart easily when tested.
5. What should I do if the ham is too dry or tough after cooking?
If the ham is dry, let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing, then brush it with a melted butter or glaze (like honey-mustard or BBQ sauce) to restore moisture. For extra tenderness, lightly spray with water or broth before serving. Avoid reheating in the crock pot if it’s already cooked—use a low oven (300°F) instead.
