Olivia Carter
If you’re searching for a convenient and delicious way to cook your Christmas ham, look no further than the slow cooker. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and infuse into the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful ham that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large festive feast, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
To start, you’ll need a quality ham. Look for a bone-in ham, as the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist. A spiral-cut ham is also a great option, as it makes serving a breeze. Once you have your ham, it’s time to prepare the glaze. A combination of brown sugar, honey, mustard, and spices creates a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the ham.
Next, place the ham in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over the top. Cover and cook on low heat for several hours, allowing the ham to slowly cook and absorb all the flavors. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the ham stays juicy and tender, while the glaze caramelizes and creates a deliciously sticky coating.
As the ham cooks, the wonderful aroma will fill your home, getting everyone into the holiday spirit. Once the ham is cooked through and heated to the desired temperature, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest before slicing. The result is a perfectly cooked Christmas ham that will be the centerpiece of your holiday table.
So, this Christmas, save time and oven space by using your slow cooker to cook the best ham you’ve ever tasted. With its convenience and mouthwatering flavors, this slow cooker Christmas ham recipe is sure to become a holiday tradition in your home.
Why Choose a Slow Cooker for Your Christmas Ham?
When it comes to cooking a ham for Christmas, using a slow cooker can be a great option. There are several benefits to choosing a slow cooker over other cooking methods for your holiday ham.
1. Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking allows the ham to cook gently and retain its moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy meat. The low and steady heat of the slow cooker helps to break down the tough connective tissues, resulting in a deliciously tender ham.
2. Hands-off Cooking: One of the biggest advantages of using a slow cooker for your Christmas ham is that it requires minimal effort. Once you’ve added the ham to the slow cooker and set the temperature, you can simply leave it to cook while you focus on other holiday preparations. This allows you to enjoy more time with your loved ones and reduces the stress of preparing a holiday meal.
3. Enhanced Flavor: Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and meld together in a way that other cooking methods may not achieve. The longer cooking time allows the flavors from the glaze or seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious ham.
4. Consistent Heat: Slow cookers provide a consistent and even heat distribution, ensuring that your ham cooks evenly throughout. This helps to prevent any parts of the ham from becoming dry or overcooked, resulting in a perfectly cooked ham that is moist and flavorful.
5. Convenient: Using a slow cooker eliminates the need for additional cooking equipment or having to monitor the ham closely. It also frees up oven space for other dishes that may need to be cooked at different temperatures. Additionally, slow cookers are easy to clean and maintain, saving you time and effort during the busy holiday season.
Overall, using a slow cooker for your Christmas ham offers many advantages, including tender and juicy meat, hands-off cooking, enhanced flavor, consistent heat, and convenience. It’s a great option to consider for a stress-free and delicious holiday meal.
Ingredients for the Perfect Slow Cooker Christmas Ham
Christmas is a time for delicious food, and one dish that is always a hit is a slow cooker Christmas ham. The slow cooker method allows the ham to cook slowly and retain its moisture and flavors, resulting in a tender and flavorful centerpiece for your holiday table. To make the perfect slow cooker Christmas ham, you will need a few essential ingredients.
1. Ham: The star of the show, the ham is the main ingredient for this recipe. You can choose between a bone-in or boneless ham, depending on your preference. A bone-in ham tends to have more flavor, while a boneless ham is easier to carve. Make sure to select a high-quality ham for the best results.
2. Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a sweet and caramelized flavor to the ham. It helps to balance out the saltiness of the meat and gives a beautiful glaze to the final dish. You will need a generous amount of brown sugar to coat the ham and create the perfect caramelization.
3. Mustard: Mustard is a classic pairing with ham. Its tangy and slightly spicy flavor cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a delicious kick. Dijon mustard is a popular choice, but you can use any type of mustard you prefer.
4. Pineapple Juice: Pineapple juice adds a tropical touch to the slow cooker Christmas ham. It helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a subtle sweetness. The acidity of the pineapple juice also helps to balance out the flavors of the dish.
5. Cloves: Cloves are a traditional spice used in Christmas ham recipes. These small, aromatic flower buds add a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the ham. You can insert cloves into the ham for decoration or grind them and incorporate them into the glaze.
6. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is another spice that pairs beautifully with ham. Its warm and earthy flavor complements the savory meat and adds a hint of sweetness. Just a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavors of your slow cooker Christmas ham.
With these essential ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering and flavorful slow cooker Christmas ham that will impress your guests. The combination of the salty ham, sweet brown sugar, tangy mustard, tropical pineapple juice, and aromatic cloves and cinnamon will make this dish a standout on your holiday menu.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Slow Cooker Christmas Ham
Preparing a delicious Christmas ham in your slow cooker is a convenient and fuss-free way to feed a crowd during the holiday season. With a few simple steps, you can have a moist and flavorful ham that everyone will love. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking a slow cooker Christmas ham.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Ham
Start by selecting the right ham for your slow cooker. Look for a bone-in ham that weighs around 6-8 pounds. This size will fit well in most slow cookers and ensure that the ham cooks evenly. Additionally, consider the flavor profile you prefer, whether you like a smoked or glazed ham, and choose accordingly.
Step 2: Preparing the Ham
Before placing the ham in the slow cooker, prepare it by trimming any excess fat or skin. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate the meat. If desired, you can also secure pineapple rings or cloves into the scored lines for added flavor and presentation.
Step 3: Making the Glaze
The glaze is what adds that delicious sweetness and depth of flavor to your Christmas ham. You can create a simple glaze by combining ingredients like brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, and pineapple juice in a saucepan. Heat the mixture until it thickens, then let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Cooking the Ham in the Slow Cooker
Place the prepared ham in the slow cooker, then pour the glaze over it, making sure to coat the ham evenly. Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook the ham on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
If you like your ham to have a caramelized exterior, you can transfer it to a baking dish and broil it in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking. This will give the ham a beautiful golden crust.
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve the slow cooker Christmas ham with the remaining glaze on the side and enjoy a delicious festive meal!
Tips and Tricks for a Juicy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Christmas Ham
Making a delicious and moist Christmas ham in a slow cooker requires some careful preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your ham turns out perfectly juicy and flavorful:
- Choose the right size ham: Consider the number of people you will be serving and select an appropriately sized ham. A larger ham tends to be juicier and more flavorful.
- Score the surface: Before placing the ham in the slow cooker, score the surface with a sharp knife. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and help it cook more evenly.
- Add a flavorful glaze: Create a glaze using honey, brown sugar, mustard, or spices of your choice. Brush the glaze over the scored surface of the ham to add extra flavor and moisture.
- Use a cooking liquid: To keep the ham moist, add a cooking liquid such as chicken broth, apple cider, or pineapple juice to the slow cooker. This will infuse the ham with additional flavors and prevent it from drying out.
- Cook on low heat: Slow cooking is the key to a tender and succulent ham. Set the slow cooker to low heat and allow the ham to cook for several hours. This slow and steady cooking process will ensure that the ham retains its moisture and flavors.
- Baste during cooking: Periodically baste the ham with the cooking liquid or glaze to enhance its flavor and keep it moist. This step will also help to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside of the ham.
- Rest before carving: Once the ham is cooked, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a juicy and flavorful Christmas ham that will be the highlight of your holiday feast. Enjoy!
Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Your Slow Cooker Christmas Ham
When it comes to serving your slow cooker Christmas ham, it’s important to have some delicious side dishes to complement the main course. These sides will not only add some variety to your meal, but they will also enhance the flavors of the ham. Here are some mouthwatering side dishes that are sure to impress your guests:
1. Scalloped Potatoes
A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham, scalloped potatoes are a crowd favorite. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of the ham, making it a match made in heaven.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized flavor. Consider roasting a variety of vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes alongside your ham. The vibrant colors and flavors will add a festive touch to your Christmas dinner.
3. Green Bean Casserole
A classic holiday side dish, green bean casserole is a must-have at Christmas dinner. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions creates a delicious and comforting dish. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms complement the rich flavors of the ham.
4. Cranberry Sauce
A sweet and tangy cranberry sauce is the perfect accompaniment to ham. The bright flavors of the cranberries cut through the richness of the ham, creating a balanced and flavorful bite. Whether you prefer a traditional cranberry sauce or a spiced variation, it’s sure to be a hit at your Christmas table.
With these delectable side dishes, you can create a memorable and flavorful Christmas meal that your family and friends will love. The combination of the succulent slow cooker ham and these delicious sides will make for a festive and satisfying holiday feast.
10 Best Slow Cooker Christmas Ham Recipe
Nesco 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker - Red
Features
| Part Number | MWR18-12 |
| Model | MWR18-12 |
| Warranty | Warranty |
| Color | Red |
| Release Date | 2018-02-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 18 Quarts |
- 1450 heating base, 18 quart capacity
- Removable cookwell with integrated side handles
- Full-range temperature control (200°F-450°F)
- Durable porcelain enamel finish
- Includes cooking rack with lift-out handles
Sunvivi 26 Quart Electric Roaster with Removable Pan, 30 LB Electric Turkey Roaster Oven with Visible & Self-Basting Lid,Large Roaster with Turkey Holder and...
Features
| Part Number | Sunvivi |
| Model | Electric roaster oven |
| Color | White |
| Size | 26 Quarts |
- 【30Lb Turkey Roaster】26 quart roaster oven fits a turkey up to 30 pounds. Versatile for bakes, slow cooks, roasts. Extra large capacity designed for family and friends gathering. In Thanksgiving, Christmas and other important days, this electric roaster will be a good helper for you to make dinner party.
- 【Visible & Self-basting Lid】Equipped with visible Glassed-lid for more convenient control for turkey, beefs or other meats, making a good color and taste turkeys, it cooks evenly without hot spots. Self-basting lid continually recirculates moisture, makes the meat tender and juicy, and does not stick to the pan.
- 【Fast Heating & Thaw/Warming Setting】The electric roaster takes less time to cook than a oven. 1450W Roaster with red light, full-range temperature control(150º to 450ºF), make your food taste better at different temperatures. The electric turkey roaster only takes a few hours to defrost the turkey until it is roasted. Electric roaster with warming setting keeps dinner at ideal serving temperature.
- 【Anti-Scaled & Easy to Clean】The electric roaster is made of reinforced stainless steel, which is resistant to rust. Cool-Touch handles on the lid and body, can protect your hands;Removable insert pot, make thanksgiving roaster easier for you to clean it. Use the liner at temperatures below 350F and with water to avoid sticking the liner to the pan.
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- 【Reminder】 The product color displayed on the outer packaging of the roaster oven does not represent the actual color. The actual color of the product will be the one you see after unpacking your purchase.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that's warm and ready when it's time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS - Sous Vide & Proof 6-in-1 Multi-Cooker, with 8.5 Quarts, Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven & More, Glass Lid & Integrated...
Features
| Part Number | MC1010 |
| Model | MC1010 |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-06-26T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8.5 Quarts |
- REPLACES 12 COOKING TOOLS & APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR & SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500°F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500°F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30% faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. *Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, and Proof.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil & glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE & EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
WESTON 2-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker & Electric Indoor Smoker, 6 Quart, 3-Tier Smoking Rack for Meat, Cheese and More, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Temperature...
Features
| Part Number | 03-2540-W |
| Model | 03-2540-W |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
- QUICKLY SMOKES FOOD INDOORS: With this indoor electric smoker/slow cooker, you'll smoke your favorite foods quickly and easily year-round right in your kitchen. It infuses meat, cheese and vegetables with authentic smokehouse flavor without the long wait.
- INDOOR SMOKER DOUBLES AS A 6 QUART SLOW COOKER: Besides smoking foods with the cooking vessel removed, you can easily slow cook a variety of foods in the nonstick cooking vessel. It holds up to 6 quarts and fits a 6 lb. chicken or a 4 lb. roast.
- SMOKES FOOD 3 WAYS: Hot smoke is perfect for smaller cuts of meat. Cold smoke adds smoky flavor (without cooking) to foods like cheese and nuts. Combo mode is great for large cuts of meat — it cold smokes food first, then cooks with hot smoke.
- INCLUDES PARTY DIPPER FOOD WARMER WITH LID: This party-size 16 oz. food warmer is perfect for cheese, dips and sauces. It's easy to clean with a dishwasher safe ceramic crock and lid.
- EASY TO USE: The digital controls are simple to use. Choose from 3 smoke settings or slow cook your meal on Low or High. Just set the timer, and the slow cooker automatically switches to Warm when cooking is complete, or it turns off when cold smoking.
FAQ
What are some delicious side dishes to serve with my slow cooker Christmas ham?
Some delicious side dishes to serve with your slow cooker Christmas ham include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole.
How can I make roasted vegetables to serve with my slow cooker Christmas ham?
To make roasted vegetables, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut your choice of vegetables into bite-sized pieces, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or seasonings. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
What is a good recipe for green bean casserole to serve with my slow cooker Christmas ham?
A good recipe for green bean casserole includes canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, French fried onions, salt, and pepper. Mix the green beans, soup, milk, and seasonings together in a casserole dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. Then, sprinkle the French fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are crispy and golden brown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving delicious side dishes with your slow cooker Christmas ham is a wonderful way to enhance your holiday feast. From creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, there are endless options to complement the succulent ham. Whether you prefer classic sides or more adventurous flavors, these dishes will surely impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So this Christmas, get creative with your slow cooker and enjoy a memorable meal that is both flavorful and festive.
