Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a meal for your family or a large gathering. Precooked hams are widely available in most supermarkets and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in a slow cooker. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker, the different types of precooked hams available, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker.
Benefits of Cooking a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are designed to cook food over a long period of time, making them perfect for busy people who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
- Easy to use: Simply place the precooked ham in the slow cooker, add your desired glaze or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Tender and juicy: Slow cookers use low heat to cook food, which helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the ham.
- Cost-effective: Precooked hams are often less expensive than fresh hams, and slow cookers use less energy than traditional cooking methods.
Types of Precooked Hams
There are several types of precooked hams available, including:
Bone-In Hams
Bone-in hams are a popular choice for slow cooker recipes. They are typically less expensive than boneless hams and offer more flavor. Bone-in hams can be cooked with the bone facing up or down, depending on your personal preference.
Boneless Hams
Boneless hams are a convenient option for slow cooker recipes. They are often pre-sliced and can be cooked in a shorter amount of time than bone-in hams.
Spiral-Cut Hams
Spiral-cut hams are a popular choice for special occasions. They are pre-sliced and can be cooked in a slow cooker with a variety of glazes and seasonings.
How to Cook a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a simple process that requires minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Before cooking your precooked ham, make sure your slow cooker is clean and ready to use. If you’re using a new slow cooker, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific preparation requirements.
Step 2: Choose Your Glaze or Seasonings
Precooked hams can be cooked with a variety of glazes and seasonings. Some popular options include:
- Brown sugar and mustard
- Honey and cloves
- Pineapple and cherry
- BBQ sauce
Choose your desired glaze or seasonings and set them aside.
Step 3: Place the Ham in the Slow Cooker
Place the precooked ham in the slow cooker, fat side up. If you’re using a bone-in ham, you can place the bone facing up or down, depending on your personal preference.
Step 4: Add the Glaze or Seasonings
Brush the glaze or seasonings over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Ham
Cook the ham on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The cooking time will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using, as well as your personal preference for tenderness.
Step 6: Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for boneless hams and 145°F (63°C) for bone-in hams.
Step 7: Let it Rest
Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and flavorful.
Cooking Times for Precooked Hams
The cooking time for precooked hams will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using, as well as your personal preference for tenderness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking times:
- Boneless hams (2-3 pounds): 2-3 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low
- Bone-in hams (2-3 pounds): 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
- Spiral-cut hams (2-3 pounds): 2-3 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a variety of glazes and seasonings to add flavor to the ham.
- Add some pineapple rings or cherry slices to the slow cooker for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
- Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.
Conclusion
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a meal for your family or a large gathering. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a tender and flavorful ham that’s sure to impress. Remember to choose the right type of ham, prepare the slow cooker, and cook the ham to the right temperature. With these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and memorable meal.
| Ham Type | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Ham (2-3 pounds) | 4-6 hours | 2-3 hours |
| Bone-In Ham (2-3 pounds) | 6-8 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Spiral-Cut Ham (2-3 pounds) | 4-6 hours | 2-3 hours |
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a small family gathering or a large crowd, a precooked ham cooked in a slow cooker is a great option.
What are the benefits of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even heating and prevents the ham from drying out. This is especially important for precooked hams, which can be prone to drying out when reheated. Additionally, using a slow cooker frees up oven space, making it ideal for large gatherings or holidays.
Another benefit of cooking a precooked ham in a slow cooker is that it’s incredibly easy. Simply place the ham in the slow cooker, add your desired glaze or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work. This makes it perfect for busy hosts who want to serve a delicious, stress-free meal.
How long does it take to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a precooked ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the ham and the desired level of heating. As a general rule, a precooked ham should be cooked on low for 20-30 minutes per pound. This means that a 5-pound ham would take around 1.5-2.5 hours to cook.
It’s also important to note that you can cook a precooked ham on high for a shorter amount of time. However, this may result in a less tender ham, so it’s generally recommended to cook on low for a longer period of time.
What type of glaze is best for a precooked ham in a slow cooker?
There are many different types of glazes that you can use for a precooked ham in a slow cooker. Some popular options include a brown sugar and mustard glaze, a honey and Dijon glaze, or a fruit-based glaze. You can also use a pre-made glaze or make your own using a combination of ingredients.
When choosing a glaze, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a sweet and sticky ham, a brown sugar and mustard glaze may be the way to go. If you prefer a tangier ham, a honey and Dijon glaze could be a better option.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the precooked ham?
Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the precooked ham. Some popular options include pineapple rings, cherry peppers, or carrots. You can also add some aromatics like onions or cloves to give the ham extra flavor.
When adding other ingredients, just make sure to arrange them in a way that allows for even heating. You can place the ingredients around the ham or on top of it, depending on your preference.
How do I know when the precooked ham is done cooking in the slow cooker?
Since the ham is already precooked, you don’t need to worry about it reaching a certain internal temperature. Instead, you can check for doneness by looking for visual cues. The ham should be heated through and the glaze should be caramelized and sticky.
You can also check the ham’s temperature by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the ham. The temperature should read at least 140°F, but this can vary depending on the type of ham and the desired level of heating.
Can I cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?
Yes, you can definitely cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it. In fact, this is a great way to save time and reduce stress when hosting a large gathering.
To refrigerate the ham, simply let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze the ham, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat a precooked ham that’s been refrigerated or frozen?
To reheat a precooked ham that’s been refrigerated or frozen, simply place it in the slow cooker and heat it on low for 20-30 minutes per pound. You can also reheat the ham in the oven, but this may result in a less tender ham.
When reheating the ham, make sure to add some liquid to the slow cooker to prevent drying out. You can use the juices from the original cooking liquid or add some broth or water.