why make this recipe
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is a delicious dish that pleases family and friends. It’s simple to prepare and requires minimal effort while delivering amazing flavors. The combination of honey, mustard, and brown sugar creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly enhances the ham’s natural taste. This dish is especially popular during holidays and special occasions.
Using a crockpot makes this recipe even more appealing. You can set it and forget it. While the ham cooks, you can spend time with your loved ones or prepare other dishes. The result is a succulent ham that is full of flavor and tenderness, making it a has-to-try recipe.
equipment needed for Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
To make Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. First and foremost, you will need a large slow cooker or crockpot. Ensuring it’s big enough for the ham to fit comfortably is vital.
In addition to the crockpot, you’ll need a small saucepan for making the glaze. A measuring cup will come in handy to measure the ingredients accurately. A whisk or spoon will help you mix the ingredients together seamlessly. Lastly, you may want to have a meat thermometer on hand to check the ham’s internal temperature.
What You Need to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
- ¾ cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard (I used Tarragon Dijon Mustard)
- ½ cup water
- 10 cloves
- 10 pounds spiral cut ham
How to Cook Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Step by Step
Start by making the glaze for the ham. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, water, and cloves. Stir the mixture occasionally as you heat it over medium heat. Allow it to come to a boil and continue cooking for about five minutes. The mixture should become fragrant from the cloves and mustard while the sugar dissolves.
Once the glaze is ready, it’s time to prepare the ham. Take your large slow cooker and place the spiral-cut ham inside it. Ensure that the ham fits well, allowing you to close the lid securely. Next, pour the delicious glaze over the entire ham, ensuring that it covers the meat thoroughly. This will help it absorb all those wonderful flavors.
After pouring the glaze, close the lid of the slow cooker. Choose the cooking temperature that suits your schedule. You can cook the ham on low for about 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. During the cooking time, it’s a good idea to baste the ham with the glaze every hour. Don’t worry too much if you forget; the ham will still turn out delicious.
The ham is done when its internal temperature reaches 140°F. To check the temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the crockpot. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pour any remaining glaze over the sliced ham for added flavor.
how to make Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is straightforward and satisfying. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to make the process smooth. This will help you stay organized and feel confident as you cook.
Begin with the glaze, as it sets the tone for the entire dish. Combine your brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, water, and cloves in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it boil for about five minutes until you achieve a fragrant glaze.
Once the glaze is ready, place your spiral-cut ham into the slow cooker. Make sure it’s snug but not overly cramped. Pour the homemade glaze over the ham, ensuring it drips into the spirals for maximum flavor. Once everything is set, close the lid and adjust your slow cooker to low or high, depending on your time.
While the ham cooks, basting it every hour with the glaze will elevate its flavor. The cooking process allows the glaze to seep into the meat, making it irresistible. After the time is up, check the ham’s internal temperature to ensure it’s safe to eat. When it’s ready, serve it up warm and gooey.
how to serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
Serving Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is a delightful experience. Start by slicing the ham into even pieces, making sure to cut along the grain. This will help achieve tender slices for your guests.
Arrange the slices on a beautiful platter, and drizzle some of the remaining glaze over the top. This adds not only flavor but also a lovely glossy finish. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs or sliced fruits for an appealing presentation.
When serving, you can also consider providing small serving utensils or toothpicks alongside the ham. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy a piece without making a mess. Pair it with some warm dinner rolls, and it becomes a wonderful meal centerpiece.
what to serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, to complement its flavor. Their natural sweetness will enhance the glaze on the ham.
Another excellent option is mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes. The creamy texture of these dishes contrasts nicely with the ham. You may also want to include a fresh green salad to lighten the meal and add some crunch.
For a complete holiday feast, consider making cranberry sauce or baked beans as side offerings. They add a nice balance to the overall meal. Lastly, don’t forget about your favorite bread or rolls to soak up any leftover glaze.
how to store Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
If you have leftovers of Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham, store them properly to maintain their flavor and safety. First, let the ham cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps retain its texture and taste.
Once cooled, wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place the slices in an airtight container if you prefer. Make sure to include some of the glaze to keep the ham moist.
Store the wrapped ham in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it for a more extended period, consider freezing it. For freezing, slice the ham, wrap each piece individually, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for a few months in the freezer.
tips to make Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
To make your Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham even better, consider a few helpful tips. First, using a quality ham can make a significant difference in taste. Look for a spiral-cut ham that is minimally processed for the best results.
Since the ham is already cooked, you’re merely reheating it and adding flavor. This means being careful not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature closely.
Don’t forget the importance of basting! Basting your ham throughout the cooking process allows the flavors to penetrate deeper and keeps it moist. If you happen to miss basting it every hour, it will still turn out delicious, so don’t stress!
variation
If you feel adventurous, you can try variations of this recipe. One option is to switch up the mustard; using whole grain mustard can add an interesting texture and flavor.
You can also add some spices or herbs to the glaze for added depth. Consider incorporating garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme to enhance the flavor profile even more. For a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce could be fun.
Another variation can be to include a fruit element in the mix. Pineapple juice or even slices of pineapple can give it a tropical twist. Experiment with these variations to find your favorite.
best time to make Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is an excellent dish for gatherings and holidays. Many families love making it for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. This dish brings joy to gatherings and is great for feeding a crowd.
It’s also ideal for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe is that you can make it any time of year if you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious.
Whether serving it at a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, it’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. One problem is not measuring the ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little of the main elements can impact the flavor of the glaze.
Another mistake is overcrowding the slow cooker. Ensure that the ham fits well inside, allowing heat to circulate properly. If it’s too tight, the ham may cook unevenly.
Don’t forget to baste the ham regularly. This is essential for achieving that rich flavor and maintaining moisture. Lastly, avoid cooking the ham for too long. Keeping an eye on the internal temperature ensures you don’t overcook it.
nutritional notes
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham can be a delicious yet indulgent dish. Ham is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also provides various vitamins and minerals, including iron and zinc.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that ham can be high in sodium. Eating it in moderation is vital, especially if you are watching your salt intake. Pairing it with lighter side dishes, such as salads or steamed vegetables, can help balance the meal.
When savoring this dish, consider portion sizes. Enjoying it with family and friends makes it a special occasion, ensuring you appreciate every flavorful bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different mustards. Whole grain, honey mustard, or spicy brown mustard can all work wonderfully.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before pouring it over the ham while cooking.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Always use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for food safety.
conclusion
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham is an easy and scrumptious dish perfect for various occasions. Its sweet and tangy glaze enhances the natural flavor of the ham, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Not only does it taste fantastic, but the slow cooking process allows you to relax while it prepares, making it a great choice for gatherings. Whether for a festivity or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your delicious creation and the memories it brings!
