Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a perfect centerpiece for holiday dinners or any special occasion. This easy-to-make recipe combines sweet honey, tangy mustard, and a touch of brown sugar to create a flavorful glaze that seeps into every slice of the ham, resulting in a tender, juicy dish. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can relax while your home fills with the mouth-watering aroma of this delicious ham.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (6-8 pounds)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

1. Unwrap the ham and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. If the ham is not pre-sliced, score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/2 inch deep. This helps the glaze soak into the meat.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Add to the Slow Cooker

1. Place the ham flat side down in your slow cooker.
2. Pour the honey mustard glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a brush or spoon to ensure the glaze gets into the scored cuts.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Step 4: Cook the Ham

1. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the ham is heated through and tender. Baste the ham with the glaze every hour if possible to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter.
2. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Drizzle some of the glaze from the slow cooker over the top of the ham before serving.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Slow Cooker Size: Make sure your ham fits into your slow cooker. If necessary, trim a small portion off the ham or use a larger slow cooker.
• Basting: Basting the ham with the glaze every hour helps infuse even more flavor, but if you’re busy, it’s okay to skip this step.
• Glaze: For a thicker glaze, transfer the leftover liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and let it reduce for a few minutes before drizzling it over the ham.

Variations

Spicy Honey Mustard Ham

• Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Maple Mustard Ham

• Replace the honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness that pairs perfectly with the mustard.

Pineapple Honey Mustard Ham

• Stir in 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the glaze for a fruity twist that adds a wonderful balance to the tangy mustard and sweet honey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Spiral-Cut Ham?

Yes! A spiral-cut ham works great in this recipe and allows the glaze to soak into all the slices, adding even more flavor. Just be careful when moving the ham, as spiral-cut hams can fall apart more easily.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven, covered, at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or use it in sandwiches, omelets, or casseroles.

Can I Freeze Honey Mustard Ham?

Yes, you can freeze leftover ham. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion. With its sweet and tangy glaze, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, using the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy, freeing you up to focus on other dishes or just enjoy the day. Try one of the variations to customize it to your taste, and enjoy this deliciously simple and comforting meal.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory, juicy bite of this honey mustard ham!