There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly cooked ham filling your home—especially when it practically cooks itself in your slow cooker. This Honey-Glazed Crock Pot Ham is a game-changer for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a juicy, flavorful centerpiece without the fuss.
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe guarantees tender, succulent ham every time—no dry edges, no oven babysitting, just pure deliciousness.
Why Slow Cooker Ham is a Must-Try
✔ Foolproof tenderness – Low, slow heat keeps it moist
✔ Hands-off cooking – Set it and forget it
✔ Oven-free – Frees up space for other dishes
✔ Better flavor infusion – Glaze soaks deep into the meat
✔ Perfect for any occasion – Holidays, potlucks, or meal prep
What You’ll Need
Essential Tools
🔹 6-8 qt slow cooker (big enough for your ham)
🔹 Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)
🔹 Basting brush (for glaze application)
🔹 Aluminum foil (optional, for easy lifting)
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Amount | Best Choices |
|---|---|---|
| Spiral-cut ham | 8-10 lbs | Pre-cooked, bone-in for flavor |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | Dark brown for richer taste |
| Honey | ¼ cup | Pure, local honey preferred |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tbsp | Adds tangy depth |
| Pineapple juice | 1 cup | Fresh or high-quality canned |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Or 2 cloves minced garlic |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ham
🔸 Let ham sit at room temp 30-45 minutes before cooking.
🔸 If unsliced, score the fat in a diamond pattern (¼-inch deep).
🔸 Line slow cooker with foil (optional, for easy removal).
2. Make the Glaze
🔸 In a bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
🔸 Place ham in slow cooker (flat side down if spiral-cut).
🔸 Pour glaze evenly over the ham, coating all sides.
🔸 Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours (until internal temp reaches 145°F).
🔸 Baste occasionally (if possible) for extra flavor.
4. Serve & Enjoy
🔸 Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.
🔸 Optional: Broil 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
🔸 Drizzle with pan juices or reduce for a thicker glaze.
Pro Tips for the Best Ham Ever
🔥 Size matters – Ensure ham fits with ~1 inch of space around it.
🍍 Extra moisture? Add pineapple slices at the bottom.
⏱ No peeking! Keep the lid on to trap steam.
🍯 Glaze boost – Double the glaze and reserve half for serving.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Classic sides: Scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls
🥗 Lighter pairings: Roasted veggies, fresh salad, cornbread
🍷 Perfect drinks: Sweet tea, apple cider, or a crisp white wine
Leftover Magic
Transform extra ham into:
🥪 Sandwiches (with Swiss & honey mustard)
🍕 Ham & pineapple pizza
🥘 Split pea soup or quiche
🍳 Breakfast hash with potatoes & eggs
FAQs
❓ Can I use a frozen ham?
→ No! Always thaw completely first for food safety.
❓ How long does it keep?
→ Fridge: Up to 5 days
→ Freezer: 2-3 months (slice before freezing)
❓ Can I cook it overnight?
→ Yes, but use a programmable slow cooker with a warming function.
❓ What if my ham is too big?
→ Trim it slightly or cut into portions.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham is the ultimate no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish—perfect for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ready to try it? Grab your slow cooker and let’s make dinner magic! 🍖✨