recipe for ham in the crock-pot
The Best recipe for ham in the crock-pot
I love this recipe because it’s also really healthy for what it is—a big, hearty dish that doesn’t feel like it’s loaded with unhealthy stuff. The crock-pot keeps the ham moist and tender without needing a ton of butter or heavy cream, and the natural sweetness of the honey balances out the savory flavors without adding too much sugar. My husband and I have been talking about cutting back on processed foods, and this ham fits right into that because it’s made with real ingredients—no mystery meat, no preservatives, just good, simple stuff. Plus, it’s great for meal prep. We can make a big batch on Sunday and have it ready for the week, and the leftovers just keep getting better and better. My kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, so do I. It’s that kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve done something good for your family, even if it’s just a little extra effort. And honestly? It’s not much effort at all—just dump it in, set the timer, and let it do its thing. That’s why I keep coming back to it.
Slow Cooker Ham with Honey Mustard Glaze
A tender, sweet-and-tangy ham glazed in honey mustard, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (12–14 lb) bone-in ham, fresh or smoked
- 1 cup water or ham broth
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat the slow cooker to LOW setting. Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut-side down. Pour water or broth around the ham to cover it by about ½ inch. -
2
Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl. -
3
Pour the glaze mixture over the ham in the slow cooker. -
4
Cook on LOW for 4 hours (or 3 hours if using a pre-cooked ham). For extra tenderness, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 5–10 minutes at the end.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For a quicker version, use a pre-cooked ham (check package for cooking instructions).
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Serve with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Variations
- {“name”:”Spicy Glaze”,”ingredients”:[“Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the glaze.”]}
- {“name”:”Herb-Infused”,”ingredients”:[“Mix in 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme with the glaze.”]}
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Ham with Honey Mustard Glaze Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ham with Honey Mustard Glaze
How long should I cook the ham in the crock-pot to ensure it’s tender and fully cooked?
The ideal cooking time for a whole ham in a crock-pot depends on the size and cut (bone-in or boneless). For a bone-in ham (about 6–8 lbs), cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 3–4 hours. For a boneless ham (4–6 lbs), reduce time to 3–4 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high. Always check internal temperature (140°F for bone-in, 145°F for boneless) with a meat thermometer.
What seasoning should I use, and how do I apply it properly?
For classic flavor, use 1–2 tbsp of salt, 1 tbsp of brown sugar, and ½ tsp of black pepper (or paprika for a smoky touch). For extra depth, add 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp thyme. Rub the seasoning all over the ham before placing it in the crock-pot, pressing it gently into the meat. Avoid over-seasoning, as excess liquid can dilute the flavor.
Can I add any liquids or broth to the crock-pot while cooking?
Yes! For extra moisture and flavor, add 1 cup of chicken or bone broth, ½ cup of apple juice, or ½ cup of water to the bottom of the crock-pot. Stir in 1 tbsp of butter or olive oil for richness. Avoid using too much liquid—it can make the ham soggy. If using a bone-in ham, avoid overcrowding to prevent steam buildup.
What should I do if the ham isn’t cooked through yet?
If the ham isn’t fully cooked after the recommended time, increase the heat setting to high (if possible) and cook an additional 30–60 minutes. Alternatively, transfer the ham to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes to finish cooking. Always check the internal temperature—it should reach 140°F (60°C) for bone-in or 145°F (63°C) for boneless.
How can I make sure the ham is safe to eat, and what are the signs of overcooking?
To ensure safety, the ham must reach 140°F (60°C) internal temperature (bone-in) or 145°F (63°C) (boneless). Signs of overcooking include dryness, a tough texture, or a temperature above 160°F (71°C). If the ham feels too dry, you can reheat it in the crock-pot with a little broth or butter for 15–20 minutes on low. Avoid leaving it uncovered in the crock-pot for too long to prevent drying out.
