Are you craving a melt-in-your-mouth ham that's bursting with sweet and savory flavor, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Then this slow cooker ham with pineapple recipe is perfect for you! This easy recipe delivers incredible results with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Prepare for a truly unforgettable meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make. It’s one of those healthy meals that feels decadent, making it a winner for everyone.
Ingredients:
- One 3-5 pound bone-in ham (spiral-sliced or whole)
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, undrained
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ham: If using a whole ham, score the fat in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate better and allows for even cooking. If your ham is pre-sliced, skip this step.
- Combine the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, cloves, and allspice. This homemade glaze is the key to that amazing flavor!
- Slow Cooker Magic: Place the ham in your slow cooker. Pour the pineapple chunks (undrained) over the top of the ham. Then, generously pour the glaze over the ham and pineapple.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it will become. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F.
- Glaze it Up: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, increase the heat to high and baste the ham with the glaze several times to create a beautiful, caramelized finish. This is where the magic happens!
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze.
- Add some cherries: Mix in a 10-ounce can of cherry pie filling along with the pineapple for an extra burst of sweetness and tartness.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some chopped onions, garlic, and carrots to the bottom of the slow cooker for a heartier dish.
- Leftovers are great! Shred the leftover ham and use it in sandwiches, salads, or quiches. It's a great way to stretch this delicious meal even further.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of your ham and the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This slow cooker ham with pineapple is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on flavor or quality. It’s a delicious dish that's easy enough for beginner cooks while still offering enough depth of flavor to satisfy experienced home chefs. Enjoy this amazing homemade cooking experience!