Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a perfect way to prepare a juicy, tender ham with minimal effort. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard to create a delicious glaze that permeates the ham as it cooks. It’s a great dish for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or any time you want a comforting and flavorful meal.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Honey Mustard Ham

• 1 (6-8 pound) fully cooked bone-in ham or boneless ham
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup water or apple juice (for the bottom of the slow cooker)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

1. If the ham has a thick layer of skin or fat, carefully trim most of it off, leaving a thin layer for flavor. Score the ham by cutting shallow lines in a crisscross pattern on the surface.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

1. Place the ham in your slow cooker, flat side down if using a bone-in ham.
2. Pour the honey mustard glaze over the ham, using a spoon or brush to make sure it’s evenly coated.
3. Pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of the slow cooker to keep the ham moist while cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Ham

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and 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.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Drizzle some of the glaze from the slow cooker over the ham before serving.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Ham Size: Make sure your ham fits in the slow cooker. If needed, you can trim it to fit.
• Basting: Basting the ham periodically helps to infuse more flavor. If you’re home while it’s cooking, try to baste every hour.
• Moisture: Adding water or apple juice to the bottom of the slow cooker helps keep the ham moist during cooking.

Variations

• Maple Honey Mustard Ham: Substitute the honey with pure maple syrup for a slightly different sweet flavor.
• Spicy Honey Mustard Ham: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the glaze for a bit of heat.
• Herb-Infused Ham: Add fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the slow cooker for added fragrance and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Spiral-Cut Ham?

Yes, you can use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe. Just be careful when handling it, as the slices can easily come apart. Cooking time may also be slightly reduced since spiral-cut hams are usually pre-sliced.

2. How Should I Store Leftover Ham?

Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

3. Can I Make This Recipe with a Boneless Ham?

Yes, you can use a boneless ham if you prefer. The cooking time will be similar, but make sure to check for tenderness.

4. What Can I Serve with Honey Mustard Ham?

This ham pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad. It’s also great with dinner rolls or cornbread.

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Ham is a delicious, low-effort way to prepare a flavorful ham for any occasion. With a simple yet tasty glaze, this ham comes out tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned every time. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or just want a special meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Feel free to customize the flavors to suit your taste, and enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides.

Happy cooking!