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How to Make 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Start by placing your fully cooked ham in the slow cooker. Whether you go for a bone-in or boneless ham, either will work just fine, though bone-in hams tend to be a bit juicier and flavorful.
If your ham comes with a skin or rind, score it in a crisscross pattern to help the glaze penetrate the meat and create a lovely caramelized exterior. This step is optional but adds extra flavor and texture.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and pineapple juice (or pineapple chunks). Stir until the brown sugar dissolves and everything is well combined. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy glaze that will coat the ham as it slow-cooks, infusing it with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Ham
Pour the glaze mixture over the ham, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Use a spoon to ladle some of the glaze over the top of the ham, ensuring the entire surface gets coated. This is where the magic happens—the brown sugar and pineapple juice will caramelize as it cooks, giving the ham a beautiful sweet and savory glaze.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham
Cover the slow cooker and cook the ham on low heat for about 4-6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and results in a wonderfully tender and juicy ham. If you prefer a slightly caramelized top, you can spoon some of the glaze over the ham every 30 minutes during the cooking process.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it directly from the slow cooker, ensuring everyone gets a generous amount of that sweet and tangy glaze.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Ham
- Choose the Right Ham: Make sure you’re using a fully cooked ham, as the slow cooker will simply reheat it and allow it to absorb the glaze. If you’re using a larger ham (over 6 pounds), you might want to cook it for a bit longer, checking for tenderness along the way.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add a little more brown sugar. On the other hand, if you want more of a tangy kick, increase the pineapple juice or add a dash of mustard to the mix.
- Save the Leftovers: Leftover ham can be used in sandwiches, soups, casseroles, or even added to salads. It’s perfect for meal prep or for a quick, easy dinner later in the week.
- Experiment with Add-ins: If you’d like to get creative, consider adding other ingredients to the glaze, such as a splash of bourbon or apple cider vinegar for added depth, or sprinkle in some cloves or cinnamon for a more festive feel.
- Baste for a Caramelized Finish: For an even more beautiful caramelized finish, occasionally baste the ham with the sauce during the cooking process. The glaze will create a lovely, golden-brown exterior that’s just as delicious as it looks.
Why This Slow Cooker Ham is a Must-Try
- It’s Foolproof: With just three ingredients, there’s little chance of messing this up. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can follow, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While this recipe is a hit during the holidays, you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to make it. It’s great for any family dinner, special event, or casual get-together.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: You can have a delicious, tender ham without slaving away in the kitchen for hours. The slow cooker takes care of everything, allowing you to focus on other dishes or simply relax.
Final Thoughts
This 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Ham recipe is the perfect solution for when you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The combination of brown sugar and pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes the ham tender, juicy, and absolutely irresistible.
So, whether it’s the middle of summer or the heart of the holiday season, don’t wait to bring these holiday vibes to your dinner table. Try this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe today—you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make and how delicious it turns out!