Cooking a pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. However, it’s essential to cook the ham for the right amount of time to ensure that it’s heated through and flavorful. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker, including cooking times, temperatures, and tips for achieving the perfect glaze.
Understanding Pre-Cooked Ham
Before we dive into cooking times and temperatures, it’s essential to understand what pre-cooked ham is and how it’s different from other types of ham. Pre-cooked ham is a type of ham that has been cooked and cured before it’s packaged and sold. This type of ham is often labeled as “pre-cooked” or “fully cooked” and can be found in most supermarkets.
Pre-cooked ham is made by cooking the ham to an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C), which kills any bacteria that may be present. The ham is then cooled, sliced, and packaged for distribution. Because pre-cooked ham has already been cooked, it can be heated and served without cooking it further. However, cooking the ham in a slow cooker can help to add flavor and tenderize the meat.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time and temperature for pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. Here are some general guidelines for cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Small pre-cooked ham (2-3 pounds): 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high
- Medium pre-cooked ham (4-5 pounds): 3-4 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Large pre-cooked ham (6-7 pounds): 4-5 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
It’s essential to cook the ham to an internal temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) to ensure that it’s heated through and safe to eat. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham.
Glazing the Ham
One of the best ways to add flavor to pre-cooked ham is to glaze it with a sweet and sticky sauce. Here’s a simple recipe for a glaze that you can use on your pre-cooked ham:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
To make the glaze, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Mix the ingredients together until they’re well combined.
To apply the glaze to the ham, brush it on during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also apply the glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking if you prefer a crisper glaze.
Tips for Cooking Pre-Cooked Ham in a Slow Cooker
Here are some tips for cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Use a large enough slow cooker: Make sure that your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ham comfortably. You should be able to fit the ham in the slow cooker with at least 1 inch of space around it.
- Add some liquid: Adding some liquid to the slow cooker can help to keep the ham moist and add flavor. You can use chicken broth, apple cider, or pineapple juice.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer can help you to ensure that the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcook the ham: Pre-cooked ham can become dry and tough if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook the ham for the recommended amount of time and check it regularly to avoid overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker:
- Not checking the internal temperature: Failing to check the internal temperature of the ham can result in undercooked or overcooked meat.
- Not using a large enough slow cooker: Using a slow cooker that’s too small can result in the ham not cooking evenly.
- Not adding any liquid: Failing to add any liquid to the slow cooker can result in dry and tough ham.
Conclusion
Cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By following the cooking times and temperatures outlined in this article, you can ensure that your ham is heated through and flavorful. Remember to use a large enough slow cooker, add some liquid, and check the internal temperature regularly to avoid common mistakes. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll be able to cook perfect pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker every time.
What are the benefits of cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker?
Cooking pre-cooked 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 pre-cooked hams, which can be prone to drying out when reheated. Additionally, using a slow cooker frees up oven space and allows for hands-off cooking, making it perfect for busy households or special occasions.
Another benefit of cooking pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker is the ability to add flavor. By placing the ham in a slow cooker with your choice of glaze or sauce, you can infuse the meat with a rich, depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with traditional oven roasting. This is especially useful for those looking to add a bit of excitement to their holiday meal.
How long does it take to cook pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for pre-cooked ham in a slow cooker will depend on the size and type of ham you’re using. Generally, a small to medium-sized ham (around 2-3 pounds) will take 2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low. Larger hams (around 5-7 pounds) will take 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
It’s also important to note that you’re not actually “cooking” the ham, but rather reheating it. Pre-cooked hams are already cooked through, so you’re simply warming them up to a safe internal temperature of 140°F. This makes it easy to cook the ham to perfection without worrying about overcooking.
What type of glaze or sauce should I use for my slow-cooked ham?
The type of glaze or sauce you use for your slow-cooked ham is entirely up to personal preference. Some popular options include a classic brown sugar and mustard glaze, a tangy BBQ sauce, or a sweet and sticky honey glaze. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create your own unique flavor profile.
When choosing a glaze or sauce, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a sweet and sticky ham, opt for a glaze with a high sugar content. If you prefer a tangier ham, choose a sauce with a higher acidity level. You can also add aromatics like onions, cloves, and cinnamon to the slow cooker for added depth of flavor.
Can I cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a bone-in ham in a slow cooker, but it may require some adjustments. Bone-in hams can be larger and more irregularly shaped than boneless hams, which can make them more difficult to fit in a slow cooker. To accommodate a bone-in ham, you may need to use a larger slow cooker or trim the ham to fit.
When cooking a bone-in ham in a slow cooker, it’s also important to consider the cooking time. Bone-in hams can take longer to cook than boneless hams, so be sure to plan accordingly. You may need to add an extra hour or two to the cooking time to ensure the ham is heated through.
How do I prevent the ham from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the ham from drying out in the slow cooker, it’s essential to keep it moist. You can do this by adding a liquid to the slow cooker, such as pineapple juice, cola, or chicken broth. You can also cover the ham with foil or a lid to prevent moisture from escaping.
Another way to keep the ham moist is to baste it regularly. You can use the juices from the slow cooker to baste the ham every 30 minutes or so. This will help keep the ham moist and add flavor. You can also add a bit of fat, such as butter or oil, to the slow cooker to help keep the ham moist.
Can I cook a spiral-cut ham in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a spiral-cut ham in a slow cooker. In fact, spiral-cut hams are ideal for slow cookers because they’re already pre-sliced, making it easy to serve. When cooking a spiral-cut ham in a slow cooker, be sure to place the ham cut-side down in the slow cooker to prevent the slices from separating.
When cooking a spiral-cut ham, you can also add a bit of liquid to the slow cooker to help keep the ham moist. You can use the same glaze or sauce you would use for a whole ham, or try something new. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as spiral-cut hams can cook more quickly than whole hams.
How do I store leftover slow-cooked ham?
To store leftover slow-cooked ham, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store the ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating the ham, be sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F to ensure food safety.
When storing leftover ham, it’s also a good idea to slice it thinly and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the ham from drying out and make it easier to reheat. You can also use leftover ham in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, and sandwiches.