Make your next holiday meal stress-free and extra special with this Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. This easy slow cooker recipe combines the rich, savory flavor of ham with the sweetness of brown sugar and juicy pineapple, creating a perfectly tender and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s for Christmas, Easter, or a Sunday family dinner, this ham is a foolproof centerpiece that requires minimal effort and delivers big on taste.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Ham Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Remove any excess fat from the ham, but leave some to keep the meat moist and flavorful. If the ham is too large for your crock pot, trim it to fit, or you can slice a portion off the bottom to make it fit snugly.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, crushed pineapple (with juice), honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot
Place the ham in the crock pot. Pour the pineapple mixture over the ham, making sure to spread it evenly over the entire surface. If possible, open the slices of ham slightly to allow some of the mixture to seep between them.
Step 4: Cook the Ham
Cover the crock pot and cook the ham on LOW for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Baste the ham with the juices every 1-2 hours to keep it extra moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, carefully transfer the ham to a serving platter. Spoon some of the pineapple and brown sugar glaze over the top before serving. Slice and serve warm.
Cook Notes
- Ham Size: Make sure your ham will fit in your crock pot. If it’s too large, you can trim it to fit, or try using a smaller boneless ham.
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Both bone-in and boneless hams work well for this recipe. Bone-in tends to be more flavorful, but boneless is easier to slice.
- Basting: Basting is optional, but it helps to ensure that the ham stays moist and flavorful. Use a spoon to scoop the juices over the ham every 1-2 hours during cooking.
Variations
1. Spicy Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Add a bit of spice by mixing in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the pineapple mixture. This will give a sweet and spicy kick to the ham.
2. Maple Glazed Pineapple Ham
Substitute the honey with pure maple syrup for a maple-flavored twist. The maple syrup pairs wonderfully with the brown sugar and pineapple, adding a rich depth of flavor.
3. Orange Pineapple Ham
Replace the Dijon mustard with orange zest and add 1/2 cup fresh orange juice to the sauce mixture for a bright citrus flavor that complements the pineapple.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve this ham with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans for a complete holiday meal.
- Rolls or Biscuits: Pair with soft dinner rolls or buttermilk biscuits to soak up the sweet and savory glaze.
- Leftover Ham Ideas: Use leftover ham in sandwiches, omelets, or soups for delicious meals later in the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Spiral-Cut Ham?
Yes! A spiral-cut ham works perfectly for this recipe, as the sauce can seep between the slices, adding even more flavor. Just be sure to baste the ham during cooking to keep it moist.
How Long Should I Cook the Ham?
Cook on LOW for about 4-5 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your ham and your specific crock pot.
How Do I Store Leftover Ham?
Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a perfect solution for a stress-free holiday main dish. The combination of sweet pineapple, brown sugar, and savory ham creates a wonderful balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, with minimal prep and the convenience of a crock pot, you can enjoy more time with your family and guests. Give it a try, and make this dish the star of your next gathering!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Let us know your thoughts and share any creative variations or serving suggestions in the comments below!
