This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a perfect holiday centerpiece or an easy way to elevate any meal. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, this ham is slow-cooked in a delicious honey mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully. The best part? Using a slow cooker makes it super convenient and frees up your oven for other dishes. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a special meal without the fuss, this honey mustard ham is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham
- Tender & Juicy: Slow-cooking makes the ham incredibly tender and juicy, infusing it with flavors.
- Delicious Glaze: The honey mustard glaze is sweet, tangy, and caramelizes to perfection.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this dish is perfect for busy holiday kitchens.
- Holiday Favorite: This ham is a showstopper that’s perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
- Leftover-Friendly: The leftovers are just as tasty and versatile for sandwiches, salads, and more!
Ingredients
- 1 (7-9 lb) bone-in spiral-cut ham (or pre-cooked boneless ham)
- ¾ cup (180ml) honey
- ½ cup (120ml) Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup (60ml) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar (or orange juice for a citrusy twist)
- 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard (for added texture and flavor)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Optional Garnish: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham and Glaze
- Make the Glaze:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, whole-grain mustard, and garlic powder until smooth. - Prep the Ham:
If your ham is not already spiral-cut, score the surface in a crisscross pattern with a knife. This helps the glaze soak into the meat.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Ham
- Add to Slow Cooker:
Place the ham in your slow cooker with the flat side down. Pour about half of the honey mustard glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it well. - Cook on Low:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the remaining glaze. The ham is ready when it’s heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Step 3: Finish with a Caramelized Glaze (Optional)
- Preheat the Broiler:
If you want a caramelized finish, preheat your oven broiler to high. - Broil the Ham:
Carefully transfer the ham to a baking dish and brush with any remaining glaze. Broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Rest and Garnish:
Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a festive touch. - Serve:
Slice and serve your tender, juicy honey mustard ham with your favorite sides!
Notes
- Choose the Right Ham: Spiral-cut hams are ideal for this recipe because they allow the glaze to penetrate each slice.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey or brown sugar slightly.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, salads, omelets, or casseroles for a delicious meal the next day.
- For a Smaller Ham: If your ham is smaller, adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?
Yes! Boneless ham works well and cooks faster, so check it around the 3-4 hour mark.
Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
No water is needed. The ham releases its own juices while cooking, which mixes with the glaze to create a flavorful sauce.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
Cooking on low heat and basting occasionally helps keep the ham juicy. Spiral-cut hams are already cooked, so you’re just warming and glazing it.
Can I make this glaze without mustard?
If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can substitute with barbecue sauce or even apricot preserves for a different flavor profile.
What sides go well with honey mustard ham?
This ham pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips and Notes
- My Tip: For an extra kick of flavor, add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the glaze!
- Pro Trick: For easy cleanup, line your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner before adding the ham and glaze.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve this ham with classic holiday sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or dinner rolls.
Variations
- Maple Mustard Ham: Substitute maple syrup for honey in the glaze for a rich, maple flavor.
- Orange Honey Ham: Replace the apple cider vinegar with fresh orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Spicy Honey Mustard Ham: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Ham: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon and extra brown sugar for a deep, smoky flavor.
- Pineapple Honey Ham: Replace the vinegar with pineapple juice and add pineapple slices on top for a tropical-inspired glaze.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham
This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a perfect holiday or special occasion dish that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The honey mustard glaze adds a sweet and tangy twist, making this ham a delightful centerpiece. With the ease of slow cooking, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up oven space for other dishes!
Ingredients
- 1 6-8 lb fully cooked, bone-in ham
- ½ cup 0.12 L honey
- ¼ cup 0.06 L Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup 0.06 L brown sugar
- ¼ cup 0.06 L apple cider vinegar or pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves optional for extra flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and ground cloves (if using). Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
- Place the ham in the slow cooker, flat side down. If your ham is too large, trim slightly or cover tightly with foil after placing it in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Glaze
- Pour the honey mustard glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a brush or spoon to spread the glaze all over the ham.
Step 4: Cook the Ham
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the ham is heated through. Baste the ham with the glaze every 1–2 hours to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the ham is heated through, transfer it to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the ham for extra flavor.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze sliced ham in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Tip: If you like a caramelized crust, transfer the ham to a baking sheet and broil it for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking.
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