How Long Does Ham Take in a Crock-Pot? Slow Cooker Ham Guide
For a succulent and flavorful ham, plan on slow cooking a fully cooked ham in a crock-pot for approximately 3-4 hours on low for a 3-5 pound ham and 5-6 hours for a 7-10 pound ham. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
The Allure of Crock-Pot Ham
The slow cooker, or Crock-Pot, is a culinary workhorse, especially when it comes to preparing holiday meals. While ovens are often tied up with side dishes and desserts, the crock-pot offers a hands-off method for creating a moist and flavorful ham. This frees up valuable oven space and reduces stress, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your gathering. Furthermore, the slow cooking process infuses the ham with flavor from the glaze, creating a truly memorable centerpiece for your feast.
Benefits of Cooking Ham in a Crock-Pot
There are numerous advantages to using a slow cooker for ham:
- Moisture Retention: Slow cooking in a moist environment prevents the ham from drying out, resulting in a tender and juicy final product.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once the ham is placed in the crock-pot, little supervision is required. This allows you to focus on other tasks.
- Flavor Infusion: The slow cooking process allows the ham to absorb the flavors of the glaze more effectively.
- Space Saving: Frees up oven space for other dishes, especially useful during holiday gatherings.
- Easy Cleanup: Many slow cookers have removable ceramic inserts that are easy to clean.
Choosing the Right Ham for Your Crock-Pot
Selecting the right ham is crucial for a successful crock-pot cooking experience. Most hams sold are already fully cooked, but it is important to verify. Choose a ham that will fit comfortably in your slow cooker with the lid securely in place. Bone-in or boneless options can be used, but bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful.
Step-by-Step Crock-Pot Ham Cooking Process
Follow these simple steps for a delicious crock-pot ham:
- Prepare the Ham: If the ham is wrapped in plastic, remove it. You may need to trim some of the outer fat, but leave a thin layer for flavor.
- Choose Your Glaze: Select a glaze recipe that complements the ham’s flavor. Popular choices include honey mustard, brown sugar, or fruit-based glazes.
- Place Ham in Crock-Pot: Place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker. This helps to keep the ham moist.
- Add Glaze: Pour the glaze over the ham, ensuring it coats the entire surface. You may reserve some of the glaze to baste the ham later in the cooking process.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for the recommended time, based on the size of the ham.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach 140°F.
- Baste and Serve: If desired, baste the ham with reserved glaze during the last hour of cooking. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Glaze Recipes to Enhance Your Crock-Pot Ham
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, and 1 teaspoon ground cloves.
- Maple Glaze: Combine 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While cooking ham in a crock-pot is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Ham: Overcooking can result in a dry and tough ham. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature does not exceed 140°F.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much liquid can dilute the flavor of the glaze. The ham will release some of its own juices during cooking. Only add liquid if the ham is in danger of scorching.
- Not Using a Glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture to the ham. Don’t skip this step!
- Failing to Check the Temperature: Relying solely on cooking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked ham. A meat thermometer is essential for accuracy.
Recommended Cooking Times Based on Ham Weight
| Ham Weight (lbs) | Cooking Time (Low) | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 | 3-4 hours | 140°F |
| 5-7 | 4-5 hours | 140°F |
| 7-10 | 5-6 hours | 140°F |
FAQs: Your Crock-Pot Ham Questions Answered
How do I know when my ham is fully cooked in the crock-pot?
Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 140°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.
Can I use a bone-in ham in the crock-pot?
Yes, you can! Bone-in hams often have more flavor, but make sure it fits in your crock-pot.
Do I need to add water to the crock-pot when cooking ham?
Generally, no. Ham releases its own juices during cooking. Only add a small amount of liquid (about 1/2 cup) if you are concerned about scorching or if your ham seems very dry.
Can I use a frozen ham in the crock-pot?
No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen ham in a crock-pot. This can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues. Thaw the ham completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What if my ham is too big for my crock-pot?
Consider cutting the ham in half or using a larger slow cooker. Do not try to force the ham into a smaller crock-pot, as this can affect cooking time and quality.
How do I store leftover crock-pot ham?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Can I reheat crock-pot ham?
Yes, you can reheat crock-pot ham in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
What sides go well with crock-pot ham?
Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, scalloped potatoes, and dinner rolls complement the savory flavor of ham.
Is it better to cook ham on low or high in the crock-pot?
Low is generally preferred for a more tender and evenly cooked ham. High heat can cause the ham to dry out.
Can I use a spiral-cut ham in the crock-pot?
Yes, spiral-cut hams work well in the crock-pot. The pre-cut slices allow the glaze to penetrate more easily, enhancing the flavor.
What can I do with the leftover ham bone?
The leftover ham bone can be used to make a flavorful ham stock for soups and stews.
How much ham should I plan per person?
A general rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound of bone-in ham per person or 1/3 pound of boneless ham per person. This allows for seconds and leftovers.