Juicy Slow Cooker Pineapple Ham: Set & Forget!

Longing for a truly delicious, show-stopping ham that practically cooks itself? Imagine a succulent, tender ham infused with sweet and tangy pineapple, all with minimal effort. This dream becomes a reality with one of the most delightful slow cooker ham recipes with pineapple you’ll ever encounter. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply a hearty family dinner, this recipe promises to be a new favorite.

Why the Slow Cooker is Your Best Friend

The beauty of using a slow cooker for your ham lies in its “set it and forget it” convenience. It frees up oven space, which is invaluable during busy holiday cooking, and consistently delivers a perfectly moist and tender ham. The low, slow heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is infused with the sweet pineapple glaze.

Essential Ingredients for Your Pineapple Ham

Gathering your ingredients for this fantastic slow cooker ham recipes with pineapple is straightforward. You’ll need:

• One 7-8 pound pre-cooked spiral-cut ham (or boneless ham)
• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for extra warmth)
• Whole cloves (optional, for garnish and flavor)

Step-by-Step Preparation: Effortless Deliciousness

Getting started on your perfect ham is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a truly delightful meal:

• Prepare the Ham: If using a spiral-cut ham, it’s already pre-sliced, making serving a breeze. If your ham is not spiral-cut, you may wish to score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This helps the glaze penetrate better.
• Place in Slow Cooker: Carefully place the ham cut-side down (if applicable) into your slow cooker. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is typically suitable for a 7-8 pound ham.
• Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground ginger (if using). Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
• Glaze the Ham: Pour the entire pineapple mixture evenly over the ham. Ensure the glaze covers as much of the ham as possible. If desired, you can insert whole cloves into the ham’s scored lines for an added aromatic touch.
• Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the glaze has thickened slightly. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker and the size of your ham. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
• Rest and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful ham. You can spoon extra glaze from the slow cooker over individual servings.

Tips for a Perfect Ham Every Time

To elevate your slow cooker ham recipes with pineapple even further, consider these expert tips:

• Don’t Overcook: Since most hams are pre-cooked, you’re essentially just reheating it and infusing it with flavor. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so monitor the internal temperature.
• Thickening the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can remove the ham from the slow cooker when done, and then transfer the remaining glaze to a saucepan. Simmer on medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Pineapple Rings: For a more decorative presentation, you can use pineapple rings instead of crushed pineapple, securing them to the ham with toothpicks before pouring the glaze.

Nutritional Highlights & Wholesome Eating

This homemade dish allows for control over ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to many pre-made options. Ham provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The pineapple adds natural sweetness, fiber, and valuable vitamins like Vitamin C and Manganese, known for their antioxidant properties. Opting for a low-sodium ham can further enhance the health benefits of this already wholesome meal. This delightful slow cooker ham recipes with pineapple offers convenience without compromising on flavor or nutritional value.

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Prepare to impress your family and friends with this incredibly easy, yet profoundly delicious, pineapple ham. With minimal effort, you’ll achieve a tender, flavorful centerpiece that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the ease and the incredible taste!

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