Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with sweet, tangy, and comforting flavors, this Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender, juicy ham infused with the natural sweetness of pineapple, perfectly balanced by the caramelized notes of brown sugar and a touch of warm spices. This recipe transforms a simple ham into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece that’s effortless to prepare and sure to impress everyone around your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works harmoniously to create a rich, flavorful glaze and tender meat that practically falls apart. From the sweetness of the brown sugar and pineapple to the subtle zing of mustard and ginger, these essentials bring the dish alive.

• Light brown sugar (1 ¼ cup, divided): Sweetens and caramelizes the ham, creating that irresistible glaze.
• Sliced pineapple in 100% juice (1 20-ounce can): Adds natural sweetness and acidity, keeping the ham juicy and flavorful.
• Boneless spiral cut ham (5 lb): The star of the dish, providing tender meat that’s easy to serve.
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness, balancing flavors beautifully.
• Ground ginger (⅛ teaspoon): Introduces a gentle warmth that enhances the glaze’s aroma.
• Cornstarch (1 ½ tablespoons): Helps thicken the glaze to the perfect consistency.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and smoothness to the finished glaze.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Start by sprinkling half a cup of brown sugar in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker, which will create a caramel-like base as it heats. Lay out 4 to 5 pineapple rings on top of the sugar to infuse their juice into the ham as it cooks.

Step 2: Position the Ham

Place your boneless spiral ham with the flat side down on the pineapple rings. Be careful not to add any extra liquid from the ham’s packaging here — the pineapple juice will provide just the right amount of moisture. Tuck the remaining pineapple slices between the layers of the ham for an even distribution of flavor, then sprinkle ¼ cup of brown sugar over and between these slices for added sweetness.

Step 3: Add Pineapple Juice and Begin Cooking

Pour a quarter cup of pineapple juice over the ham to keep it moist and juicy throughout the cook time. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low, allowing the ham to cook for 2½ to 3 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This slow cooking process is what makes the ham so tender.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

While the ham continues to cook, gather the remaining pineapple juice—you should have about three-quarters of a cup—and collect ham drippings from the slow cooker using a ladle until you have 1½ cups of liquid in total. Pour this combined liquid into a small pot. Then whisk cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the liquid to create a smooth slurry and add it to the pot. Stir in the remaining half cup of brown sugar, mustard, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently until it thickens—this usually takes around five minutes. Finish by stirring in butter for a luscious, silky glaze.

Step 5: Glaze the Ham and Finish Cooking

Ladle half of your homemade glaze all over the ham, making sure to carefully coat between the slices so every bite is bursting with flavor. Cover and return the ham to the slow cooker for another 30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This final step ensures the glaze sets beautifully on the ham.

Step 6: Serve Warm with Remaining Glaze

Slice your ham carefully and serve it warm, drizzling the remaining glaze over each portion. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, juicy pineapple, and tender ham makes every bite a celebration on your plate.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your dish tremendously. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few sprigs of thyme over the sliced ham for a pop of green and an herbaceous note that balances the sweetness. A few extra pineapple rings on the side also make for an inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

This Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light, crisp green salad. For an extra touch of comfort, consider serving alongside sweet potatoes or a buttery cornbread.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive occasions, arrange the ham slices on a large serving platter with pineapple rings fanned around the edges and drizzle more of the glaze on top just before serving. You can also use this glazed ham as the centerpiece for sandwiches or sliders topped with fresh greens and a dollop of mustard or mayo for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, store any leftover Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or a quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this dish later, ham slices freeze wonderfully. Wrap portions tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags, along with some of the glaze to keep everything moist, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover ham and glaze in a baking dish covered with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, usually around 20 minutes. Reheating slowly helps retain moisture and prevents the glaze from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a bone-in ham for this Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe?

Absolutely! While a boneless ham is easier to slice and serve, a bone-in ham will add even more flavor to the dish. Just allow for additional cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s heated to the proper temperature.

Is it necessary to use a spiral cut ham?

Spiral cut ham is ideal because it makes carving effortless and allows the glaze to seep between slices. However, you can use any pre-cooked ham you like, just adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s thoroughly warmed through.

Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned pineapple?

Canned pineapple in its own juice is recommended because it provides sweetness and enough liquid to keep the ham moist in the slow cooker. Fresh pineapple could work but may require adding extra juice or a bit of water to compensate.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the glaze?

You can use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as a thickening substitute. Just remember that flour will need to cook a bit longer to remove its raw taste, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe in a regular oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Place the ham and pineapple in a roasting pan, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 325°F for about 1½ to 2 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid drying the ham out.

Final Thoughts

There is something utterly comforting and joyous about making this Slow Cooker Ham with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe. It’s a delightful harmony of flavors that’s incredibly easy to prepare but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether for a holiday, a special family dinner, or just because you deserve something special, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your home. Give it a try and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite!

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