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Easy Dump-and-Go Crockpot Ham Recipe with Caramelized Pineapple Perfect for Holidays

dump-and-go crockpot ham - featured image

A fuss-free slow cooker ham recipe featuring a sweet and savory caramelized pineapple glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings and busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Bone-in ham, about 5-7 pounds (pre-cooked spiral-cut ham works well)
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice (not syrup)
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Remove the ham from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Optionally, score the surface in a diamond pattern about ¼ inch deep to help glaze penetration. (10 minutes)
  2. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, cloves, garlic powder, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice from the can. Stir until sugar dissolves. (5 minutes)
  3. Place the ham flat side down in the crockpot. Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the ham, covering all sides. Arrange pineapple slices on top and tuck some around edges if space allows. Dot butter pieces over pineapple and glaze. (5 minutes)
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until heated through and tender. Avoid lifting the lid to retain moisture and tenderize meat. (6-8 hours unattended)
  5. Optional: For a more caramelized top, transfer pineapple slices to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Otherwise, serve directly from the crockpot. (5 minutes)
  6. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in. Spoon glaze from the bottom over slices for extra flavor. (10 minutes)

Notes

Use pineapple in juice, not syrup, to avoid overly sweet glaze. Scoring the ham helps glaze absorption but is optional. Avoid opening the crockpot lid during cooking to retain moisture. Butter adds richness and smooth texture. For thicker glaze, remove ham and cook glaze uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes before serving. Can be baked in oven at 300°F covered for about 2 hours as an alternative method.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot ham, slow cooker ham, caramelized pineapple, holiday ham recipe, easy ham recipe, dump-and-go ham, holiday dinner, sweet and savory ham