Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Ham Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, you’ll love this slow cooker ham recipe. It’s a game-changer for busy days. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home as the ham cooks slowly, filling the air with deliciousness. The hands-off cooking means you can focus on other tasks or spend time with your guests, rather than being glued to the kitchen. Plus, the result is a tender, juicy ham that practically falls apart, making it perfect for any occasion. I’ve found that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, and the sweet, caramelized flavor of the brown sugar elevates the dish. Trust me, your friends and family will be raving about it!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Ham
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of slow cooker ham. If you’re anything like me, you probably love the idea of a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make.
This slow cooker brown sugar ham is an absolute gem for any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that will have everyone talking. Plus, the best part? You can set it and forget it! So, let’s get started on what you’ll need to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Ham
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1 (8 lb) cured bone-in picnic ham
Now, isn’t that a short and sweet list? You only need two main ingredients, which is perfect for those of us who may not have a fully stocked pantry at all times.
Just picture it: the rich sweetness of brown sugar combined with the savory, smoky flavor of ham. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
One thing to take into account is the type of ham you use. While the recipe calls for an 8 lb cured bone-in picnic ham, I’ve had success with a 9 lb spiral cut honey cured ham too.
Just a little tweak here and there, and you can still achieve that same mouthwatering result. And if you’re worried about fitting the ham in your slow cooker, don’t be afraid to trim it a bit or use some foil to cover it tightly.
The foil trick not only helps keep the moisture in, but it also guarantees that every bit of that delicious glaze seeps into the meat. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious process of making this slow cooker brown sugar ham. It’s as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, since you won’t even have to worry about crusts.
First things first, grab your 2 cups packed brown sugar. Yes, it sounds like a lot, but trust me, this is what makes it so good. Spread about 1 1/2 cups of that sweet, sweet brown sugar right on the bottom of your slow cooker. You want it nice and even, like a cozy sugar blanket for your ham to rest on.
Speaking of ham, take your 8 lb cured bone-in picnic ham and place it flat side down into the slow cooker. If it doesn’t fit perfectly, don’t sweat it. You can trim it a bit. The goal is to have that ham surrounded by all that sugary goodness.
Now comes the fun part. With the remaining brown sugar, rub it all over the surface of the ham. Make sure to get every nook and cranny because you want that sugar to caramelize and create a beautiful glaze.
Once that’s done, cover your slow cooker with the lid, and if you’re using a larger ham, you might want to seal it with some foil first. This little trick keeps the moisture in, ensuring your ham turns out juicy and tender.
Then, set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 8 hours. Imagine the scent wafting through your house as it cooks—it’s like a warm hug for your senses.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also use a 9 lb spiral cut honey cured ham instead, and just cook it for about 4 hours on low. Just remember, the longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it gets.
When the time is up, your ham will be ready to dazzle at the dinner table. Just picture it: a beautifully glazed ham, glistening under the lights, and your family or friends gathered around in anticipation.
It’s a showstopper, and you didn’t even have to slave away in the kitchen. You’ve got this in the bag, and soon enough, everyone will be raving about your cooking skills—who knew you could be such a culinary wizard with just a slow cooker and some brown sugar?
Now, go ahead, enjoy that ham and the compliments that will surely follow.
Slow Cooker Ham Substitutions & Variations
While brown sugar ham is a classic, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to make this dish your own.
For instance, I’ve swapped brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile. If you like a bit of spice, try adding Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sugar mix.
You can also experiment with different types of ham, like a smoked or honey-glazed option, which adds unique flavors. For a tropical twist, I’ve added pineapple juice or chunks to the slow cooker.
Each variation brings its own flair, so don’t hesitate to get creative and find the combination that suits your taste best!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ham
When planning a meal around slow cooker ham, it’s essential to contemplate sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors.
I love serving buttery mashed potatoes alongside the ham; they soak up the delicious juices beautifully. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a nice crunch and vibrant color.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the ham perfectly. For a comforting touch, I often include baked beans, which bring a touch of heartiness to the table.
And don’t forget some warm dinner rolls to mop up all that tasty sauce! These sides create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy, making your slow cooker ham the star of the show.
Additional Tips & Notes
Serving slow cooker ham with the right sides can enhance your meal, but there are also some tips to keep in mind for the best results.
First, always check the size of your ham; it should fit comfortably in the slow cooker. If you’re using a spiral cut ham, consider wrapping it in foil before cooking to retain moisture.
I’ve found that adding a splash of apple juice or pineapple juice can elevate the flavor, too.
Don’t forget to let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing; this helps keep it juicy.
Finally, save any leftover glaze for drizzling over the sliced ham or as a dipping sauce.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful ham!