How To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker On High [GUIDE]

Few meals carry the comforting, savory aroma of a perfectly cooked ham. Rich, tender, and imbued with flavors that range from subtly sweet to boldly spiced, ham is a centerpiece of many family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and cozy dinners alike. While traditional oven roasting has its merits, using a slow cooker transforms the process into a nearly effortless culinary experience, allowing the meat to simmer gently in its own juices, absorbing any glazes or seasonings applied. Cooking ham in a slow cooker on the high setting is especially advantageous when time is limited but flavor cannot be compromised. This guide delves deeply into every aspect of slow-cooked ham, from cooking times and techniques to troubleshooting, ensuring your ham emerges succulent, aromatic, and ready to impress.

How Long To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker On High

The cooking time for ham in a slow cooker on the high setting depends largely on the size and type of ham. Generally, for a fully cooked, bone-in ham, you should allow 3-4 hours on high. If the ham is smaller, closer to 3-4 pounds, 2½-3 hours may suffice. Conversely, a larger ham, around 6-8 pounds, may require closer to 5 hours. It is crucial to note that slow cookers vary in heat intensity, so these times are approximate. The high setting essentially accelerates the slow, low-and-slow process, allowing the ham to heat evenly while still maintaining its moisture. Unlike the oven, where you need to be vigilant about temperature spikes or drying, the slow cooker ensures gentle heat circulation around the ham, keeping it tender without constant supervision.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining the doneness of ham is critical for both safety and taste. Even if the ham is pre-cooked, it must be heated thoroughly to be safe and enjoyable. The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone if applicable. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams. For fresh, uncooked hams, the safe internal temperature is 145°F (63°C), followed by a resting period of at least three minutes. Visual and tactile cues can supplement temperature checks: the meat should feel warm and firm, with juices that are clear rather than pink or bloody. Additionally, the exterior should develop a gentle glaze if you’ve applied sugar, honey, or mustard-based coatings during cooking.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking a ham in a slow cooker on high requires minimal ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine while adding complementary notes:

• Fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless, depending on preference)
• Glaze (optional but recommended): honey, brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cloves, pineapple juice, or apple cider
• Liquid for slow cooking: water, broth, or fruit juice (about ½-1 cup to maintain moisture)
• Aromatics (optional): sliced onions, garlic cloves, or bay leaves
• Spices (optional): black pepper, cinnamon, or nutmeg for a warm undertone

The slow cooker method is forgiving; even a simple glaze and liquid base can produce a tender, flavorful ham, while additional aromatics elevate the dish to a gourmet level.

How To Cook Ham In Slow Cooker On High

1. Prepare the ham: Score the surface in a diamond pattern if using a glaze. This allows flavors to penetrate and creates a visually appealing presentation.
2. Add liquid: Pour ½-1 cup of water, broth, or juice into the base of the slow cooker to create steam and prevent the ham from drying out.
3. Apply glaze: Brush the ham generously with your chosen glaze. If using cloves or spices, insert or sprinkle them strategically.
4. Place ham in slow cooker: Position the ham with the fat side up, which helps baste the meat naturally as it cooks.
5. Cook on high: Set the slow cooker to high for 3-4 hours, checking occasionally for moisture. You can baste with the accumulated juices once or twice for extra flavor.
6. Finish and rest: Once the internal temperature reaches the target, allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This ensures juices redistribute, preventing a dry final product.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with a slow cooker, mishaps can occur:

• Dry ham: Likely overcooked or insufficient liquid. Try adding more broth or juice and covering the ham tightly with foil to trap steam.
• Under-flavored ham: If your glaze didn’t penetrate, consider reserving the cooking liquid and simmering it into a glaze or sauce post-cooking.
• Uneven heating: This can happen with larger hams. Rotate the ham midway if possible, or cover exposed sections with foil to prevent overcooking.
• Burnt glaze: High sugar content can caramelize too quickly. Apply glazes in the last hour of cooking or baste gradually to avoid this.

Expert Tips

• Choose bone-in for flavor: The bone adds depth and richness to the meat.
• Do not overfill the slow cooker: Leave at least an inch of space around the ham for even heat circulation.
• Baste periodically: Even 1-2 times enhances moisture and glaze absorption.
• Let it rest: Resting for 10-15 minutes is non-negotiable for succulent slices.
• Use a digital thermometer: A reliable thermometer is better than timing alone, especially for large hams.
• Layer aromatics underneath: Onions, apples, or even sweet potatoes can absorb drippings and create a secondary dish alongside the ham.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. If a slow cooker isn’t available, the oven is a great alternative. Preheat to 325°F (163°C), place the ham in a roasting pan with ½-1 cup liquid, and cover loosely with foil. Cook for approximately 15 minutes per pound for pre-cooked hams, basting periodically. The oven method produces similar results but requires more attention to avoid drying the edges.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Leftover ham reheats beautifully in a slow cooker:

1. Slice or leave whole: Smaller slices reheat faster.
2. Add moisture: Pour a splash of broth, juice, or even water over the ham to prevent drying.
3. Cover and heat: Set the slow cooker to low for 1-2 hours, checking occasionally until warmed through.
4. Enhance flavor: Optional glaze or aromatics can revitalize the taste, making leftovers as delicious as freshly cooked ham.

FAQs

How Long Should I Cook Ham In A Slow Cooker On High?

Cooking time depends on the size of your ham. Generally, a fully cooked 4-6 pound ham should be heated for 2 to 3 hours on high. Larger hams may require 3 to 4 hours. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F for pre-cooked ham.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Ham In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, adding liquid helps keep the ham moist and prevents it from drying out. You can use water, apple juice, pineapple juice, or a mixture. Typically, 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid is sufficient for a 4-6 pound ham.

Should I Cover The Ham With Foil When Cooking In A Slow Cooker On High?

Covering the ham with the slow cooker lid is sufficient. Foil is not necessary unless you want to prevent the glaze from sticking to the lid. Using the lid ensures even heating and moisture retention.

Can I Glaze The Ham Before Cooking It In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, applying a glaze before or during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking can enhance flavor. Popular glazes include brown sugar, honey, mustard, or maple syrup. Avoid glazing at the start to prevent burning or excessive caramelization.

How Do I Ensure The Ham Stays Juicy When Cooking On High In A Slow Cooker?

Add sufficient liquid, avoid overcooking, and keep the lid closed during cooking. Slow cookers cook quickly on high, so monitor the time closely. Basting the ham occasionally with its juices can also help retain moisture.

Is It Safe To Cook A Fully Cooked Ham On High In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, it is safe. Fully cooked hams only need to be reheated to an internal temperature of 140°F. Using the high setting reduces cooking time, but it’s important to monitor to prevent drying.

Can I Add Vegetables When Cooking Ham In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, root vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions can be added. Place them around the ham and ensure there is enough liquid for steaming. Keep in mind that vegetables may cook faster than the ham on high, so cut them into larger pieces to prevent overcooking.

Should I Score The Ham Before Cooking In A Slow Cooker On High?

Scoring is optional but recommended if you plan to add a glaze. Scoring creates shallow cuts on the surface, allowing the glaze to penetrate and flavor the ham evenly.

How Do I Prevent The Ham From Sticking To The Slow Cooker?

Lightly greasing the slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil before placing the ham can help. Additionally, ensure there is some liquid in the bottom and avoid stirring aggressively.

Can I Cook A Frozen Ham In A Slow Cooker On High?

It is not recommended to cook a frozen ham directly in a slow cooker on high, as it may not heat evenly and can remain in the danger zone for bacterial growth. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator before slow cooking.