Free Shipping on orders over US$39.99 +16308230407

How Long To Put Ham In Slow Cooker

Learn how long to cook ham in a slow cooker for tender, juicy results with our easy-to-follow guide.
Top Rated
Hamilton Beach Extra Large Slow Cooker
Amazon.com
Hamilton Beach Extra Large Slow Cooker
Trending Now
Holiday Honey Glazed Spiral Sliced Ham
Amazon.com
Holiday Honey Glazed Spiral Sliced Ham

One of the easiest and most delicious ways to cook a ham is in a slow cooker. It’s a hands-off method that results in juicy, tender, and flavorful meat. But how long do you actually need to cook a ham in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for a ham in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size and type of ham, as well as your personal preferences. On average, it takes about 4 to 6 hours to fully cook a ham in a slow cooker. However, it’s important to note that cooking times can be different for bone-in and boneless hams.

If you’re using a bone-in ham, it will take longer to cook compared to a boneless ham. The bone adds extra moisture and flavor to the meat, but it also requires more time to fully cook. You can expect a bone-in ham to take around 6 to 8 hours in a slow cooker.

Must-Have
Wireless Meat Thermometer with 4 Probes
Unlimited range Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity
This versatile meat thermometer allows cooking with precision through four probes, ensuring perfectly grilled meats every time. Enjoy smart control with an easy-to-read LCD screen and durable waterproof design.
Amazon price updated: August 23, 2025 3:45 pm

When cooking a ham in a slow cooker, it’s important to monitor the internal temperature to ensure that it reaches a safe level. The USDA recommends cooking ham to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Preparing the Ham

Before putting the ham in the slow cooker, there are a few steps you should take to ensure it is ready to be cooked to perfection.

Cooking Method

First, decide on the cooking method you will use for the ham. You can choose to cook it with or without the bone, depending on your preference. If you prefer boneless ham, make sure to remove any bones before cooking.

Trimming the Fat

Next, trim any excess fat from the ham. While some fat is desired for flavor, too much can make the dish greasy. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut away any large pieces of fat. Leave a thin layer on the ham to prevent it from drying out during cooking.

Seasoning

After trimming the fat, season the ham according to your taste. You can use a pre-made ham glaze or create your own seasoning blend using herbs, spices, and a sweetener like brown sugar or honey. Rub the seasoning mixture onto the ham, making sure to cover all sides.

Slow Cooker Setup

Once the ham is prepared, it’s time to set up the slow cooker. Place a liner or liner bag in the slow cooker to make cleanup easier. Then, place the seasoned ham in the slow cooker, making sure it fits without touching the sides. If the ham is too large, consider cutting it into smaller pieces.

Weight Cooking Time
3-4 pounds 4-5 hours
5-7 pounds 6-8 hours
8-10 pounds 8-10 hours

Make sure the slow cooker is set to the desired temperature. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the ham and the type of slow cooker you are using.

See also  Can You Cook Pulled Pork On High In Slow Cooker

Now that the ham is prepared and the slow cooker is ready, you can relax and let the slow cooker work its magic. The ham will come out moist, tender, and full of flavor when cooked to perfection.

Choosing the Right Slow Cooker

When it comes to cooking a ham in a slow cooker, choosing the right appliance can make a big difference. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a slow cooker:

Top Rated
Hamilton Beach Extra Large Slow Cooker
Cook for gatherings with ease
Perfect for large gatherings, this slow cooker features a 10 quart capacity and easy-to-use controls to deliver flavorful meals with minimal effort. Cleanup is a breeze with dishwasher-safe components.
Amazon price updated: August 23, 2025 3:45 pm

Size: Slow cookers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 1 quart to 8 quarts. It’s important to choose a size that can accommodate the size of your ham. If you have a large ham or if you plan to cook other ingredients along with the ham, a larger slow cooker may be necessary.

Features: Slow cookers can come with a variety of features, such as programmable timers, temperature settings, and even searing functions. Consider which features are important to you and choose a slow cooker that fits your needs.

Durability: Look for a slow cooker that is made with high-quality materials and has a sturdy construction. This will ensure that your slow cooker will last for years to come and can withstand the heat and weight of a ham.

Shape: Slow cookers come in various shapes, including oval and round. For cooking a ham, an oval-shaped slow cooker may be more suitable as it can accommodate larger cuts of meat.

Price: Slow cookers can range in price, so consider your budget when choosing the right one. Remember that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, so read reviews and compare different models before making a decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect slow cooker for cooking a delicious ham. Happy cooking!

Setting up the Slow Cooker

Before putting the ham in the slow cooker, it is important to properly set up the appliance to ensure safe and effective cooking.

  • Choose the right size: Make sure your ham will fit comfortably in the slow cooker. It should not be too large or too small for the appliance.
  • Clean the slow cooker: Wash the slow cooker thoroughly with warm soapy water before using it. This removes any residue or dust that may be present and helps maintain food hygiene.
  • Position the slow cooker: Place the slow cooker on a stable and heat-resistant surface. Ensure that it is at least six inches away from any walls or other objects to allow air circulation and prevent heat damage.
  • Add cooking liquid: Depending on the recipe, you may need to add a cooking liquid such as broth, water, or sauce. This helps keep the ham moist and adds flavor during the slow cooking process.
  • Set the desired temperature: Most slow cookers have different temperature settings, such as low, medium, and high. Choose the appropriate setting for your ham recipe. Low heat is recommended for most ham recipes as it allows for slow, even cooking.
  • Set the cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of ham you are using. Follow the recipe instructions or guidelines provided with your slow cooker to determine the appropriate cooking time. Generally, a ham cooked in a slow cooker will take around 4 to 8 hours on low heat.
See also  How Many Hours To Cook Oxtail In Slow Cooker

Once you have set up the slow cooker, you are ready to put the ham in and let it cook slowly to perfection!

Cooking the Ham

Once you have prepared your ham according to the recipe or instructions you are following, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by plugging in and turning on your slow cooker. Make sure the cooker is clean and in good working condition.

2. Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker

Carefully place the ham in the slow cooker, making sure it fits comfortably without touching the sides. If necessary, you can trim the ham to fit better.

3. Add Liquid

Depending on the recipe or your personal preference, you may need to add a liquid to the slow cooker. This can be water, broth, or a combination of liquids. Adding liquid can help keep the ham moist and add flavor.

4. Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker to the low heat setting and cook the ham for the recommended amount of time. This can vary depending on the size of the ham and the recipe you are using. Generally, cooking a ham in a slow cooker can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.

5. Check for Doneness

About 30 minutes before the recommended cooking time is up, start checking the ham for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Once the ham is done, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your deliciously cooked ham!

Checking for Doneness

When cooking ham in a slow cooker, it is important to check for doneness to ensure that it is safe to eat. Here are a few ways to determine if your ham is cooked thoroughly:

1. Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that cooked ham should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any bone or fat, to get an accurate reading.

It is important to note that some slow cookers may cook at a slightly lower temperature, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If your slow cooker tends to cook at a lower temperature, consider cooking the ham for a longer period of time to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

2. Texture of the Meat

Another way to determine if the ham is done is to check the texture of the meat. When fully cooked, the ham should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. If the meat still feels tough or chewy, continue cooking for a bit longer until it reaches the desired tenderness.

Note: If you are cooking a spiral-cut ham, it may be more difficult to check the internal temperature accurately due to the honey glaze or any other flavored coating on the surface of the ham. In this case, rely more on the texture and appearance of the meat to determine doneness.

Trending Now
Holiday Honey Glazed Spiral Sliced Ham
Selected Best Ham by national magazines
This gourmet ham, fully cooked and ready to serve, features a delicious honey glaze and low salt. Ideal for holiday meals and gatherings, it serves 16-18 people effortlessly.
Amazon price updated: August 23, 2025 3:45 pm

Once the ham is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham. Enjoy!

See also  Are Crock Pot Slow Cookers Good

Serving and Storing the Cooked Ham

Once your ham is cooked to perfection in your slow cooker, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips on how to serve and store your slow-cooked ham:

Serving:

1. Carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker using tongs or a large fork. Place it on a cutting board and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.

2. Slice the ham against the grain to ensure tender and juicy slices. You can slice it as thin or as thick as you prefer.

3. Arrange the sliced ham on a serving platter or individual plates. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or pineapple slices for added flavor and presentation.

4. Serve the slow-cooked ham with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Storing:

1. Let the cooked ham cool down to room temperature before storing. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.

2. Once cooled, transfer the ham to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

3. Store the ham in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftover slices, you can also freeze them for later use.

4. When ready to reheat the stored ham, preheat your slow cooker and place the slices in it. Slowly heat the ham on low until warmed through.

Now you’re ready to serve and store your delicious slow-cooked ham with confidence!

Questions and answers

How long should I cook ham in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for ham in a slow cooker will vary depending on the size and type of ham. As a general guideline, for a 2-3 pound ham, it will take about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat. For a larger ham, you may need to cook it for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat.

Can I cook a ham in a slow cooker overnight?

Cooking a ham in a slow cooker overnight is not recommended as it can lead to overcooking and dryness. It is best to cook a ham in a slow cooker for the recommended amount of time, which is usually around 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat. If you want to have a ham ready in the morning, you can start cooking it in the evening and let it cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.

Olivia Carter
Olivia Carter

Olivia Carter is a passionate home cook and kitchen tech enthusiast with over 10 years of experience experimenting with innovative appliances and culinary techniques. She loves exploring how technology can simplify cooking while enhancing creativity in the kitchen. Olivia combines her love for food and gadgets to provide practical advice, honest reviews, and inspiring ideas for home cooks of all levels. When she’s not testing the latest kitchen tools, Olivia enjoys hosting dinner parties, developing recipes, and sharing her culinary adventures with the Tech for Cooking community. Her approachable style and expertise make her a trusted voice in the world of modern cooking.

Tech for Cooking
Logo