There’s something incredibly comforting about a glazed ham, especially when it’s served during holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weekend dinners. This slow cooker version makes it effortless to prepare a flavorful and juicy spiral-cut ham without taking up space in your oven. Whether you’re hosting Easter, Christmas, or just craving a hearty main dish, this method frees up valuable kitchen time and ensures your ham stays tender and warm until serving.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just two pantry staples—apricot preserves and Dijon mustard—you can transform an ordinary ham into a sweet and tangy centerpiece. The glaze slowly soaks into each slice as it cooks, enhancing the smoky flavor with just the right touch of sweetness and spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with nearly any side dish, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to mac and cheese or a crisp salad.
Using the slow cooker for ham isn’t just easy; it’s also a great way to ensure every bite is moist and infused with flavor. Once you try this method, you may never go back to oven-baking your ham again.
Ingredients (Serves 16)
1 fully cooked spiral-cut hickory smoked ham (6 to 7 pounds)
5 tablespoons apricot preserves
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of apricot preserves and the Dijon mustard to create your glaze.
Place the ham in a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. If necessary, position the ham on its side to fit under the lid.
Brush the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it gets between the slices as much as possible.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining 1 tablespoon of apricot preserves over the ham for a shiny, flavorful finish.
Slice and serve warm.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
This dish provides a rich source of protein and is naturally low in carbohydrates. The apricot-Dijon glaze adds a slight sweetness and a bit of sugar, which can be adjusted depending on dietary preferences. As with most cured meats, the ham can be high in sodium and may not be ideal for low-salt diets. Gluten-free if using a certified gluten-free mustard and preserves.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Tried this slow cooker ham and loved it? Let others know! Share your favorite side dishes or twists on the glaze in the comments. Every shared experience helps another home cook. Don’t forget to tag someone who would enjoy making (or eating) this dish too!