Cooking a ham in a slow cooker is one of the most effective ways to ensure a juicy, tender centerpiece for your holiday meal or Sunday dinner. Unlike an oven, which can quickly dry out the edges of a lean cut of pork, the sealed environment of a crockpot traps moisture and allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. However, because hams come in various sizes and types—pre-cooked, spiral-sliced, or bone-in—knowing exactly how long to leave it in the pot is the difference between a melt-in-your-mouth feast and a rubbery disappointment.
Understanding the Basics of Slow Cooker Ham
When you ask how long to cook ham in a crockpot, the first thing to realize is that most store-bought hams are already fully cooked or “cured.” In these cases, you aren’t actually “cooking” the meat from a raw state; you are reheating it to a safe, palatable temperature while infusing it with glazes and aromatics.
For a standard fully cooked, bone-in ham weighing between 6 and 8 pounds, the general rule of thumb is to cook it on the LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours. While it may be tempting to use the HIGH setting to save time, doing so increases the risk of the ham becoming tough. The LOW setting mimics a professional braise, slowly rendering the fat and breaking down any remaining connective tissue.
Factors That Influence Cooking Time
Several variables will dictate whether your ham needs the shorter or longer end of the time spectrum. It is always better to start checking the temperature early rather than relying solely on the clock.
Weight and Size of the Ham
The weight of the ham is the most significant factor. Most experts recommend calculating approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound when cooking on LOW. For example, a 5-pound ham may be ready in just 3 to 4 hours, whereas a large 9-pound ham could require up to 7 or 8 hours to reach the center.
Bone-In vs. Boneless
Bone-in hams generally take longer to heat through than boneless varieties because the bone acts as an insulator. However, the bone also provides more flavor and helps the meat stay moist. If you are using a boneless ham, start checking the internal temperature about an hour earlier than you would for a bone-in cut of the same weight.
Spiral-Cut vs. Whole Ham
Spiral-cut hams are incredibly convenient for serving, but they require a more watchful eye. Because the meat is already sliced, the steam in the crockpot can easily penetrate the layers. This speeds up the heating process but also makes the ham more prone to drying out. A spiral ham may only need 2 to 3 hours on LOW. Many chefs recommend placing spiral hams cut-side down to trap the juices between the slices.
The Importance of Internal Temperature
Regardless of the time on the timer, the internal temperature is the only true indicator of doneness. According to USDA guidelines, a fully cooked ham that has been repackaged (which includes almost all grocery store hams) should be reheated to an internal temperature of 140°F.
If you are cooking a “cook-before-eating” ham or a fresh, raw ham, the requirements are different. These must reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a three-minute rest. Using a digital meat thermometer ensures you hit these targets without overshooting and drying out the meat.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham
To maximize the quality of your ham while it simmers, consider these professional techniques:
Adding Liquid
Never cook a ham in a dry crockpot. Adding about 1/2 cup of liquid—such as pineapple juice, apple cider, ginger ale, or even a bit of water—creates the steam necessary to keep the meat succulent. The liquid also forms the base for a delicious au jus or gravy later.
Timing the Glaze
If your recipe includes a sugar-based glaze (like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup), wait to apply it until the last 30 to 60 minutes of cooking. If you apply a thick glaze too early, the sugars can burn against the sides of the slow cooker, creating a bitter flavor. Applying it toward the end allows the glaze to become tacky and sweet without scorching.
Making it Fit
If your ham is too large for the lid to close completely, do not leave it open. You can cover the top of the slow cooker with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil to create a tent, then place the lid on top of the foil. This seals in the heat and moisture effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I cook a ham on the HIGH setting?
While you can cook a ham on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, it is generally not recommended. The high heat can cause the protein fibers to contract too quickly, squeezing out the moisture and resulting in a tougher texture. LOW is always the preferred setting for the best results.
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Do I need to flip the ham during cooking?
Flipping is not strictly necessary because the slow cooker provides surrounded heat. However, if you find that your crockpot has a “hot spot” or if the top of the ham is peeking out above the liquid line, you can carefully rotate it halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heating.
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How do I prevent a spiral ham from drying out?
To keep a spiral-cut ham moist, place it cut-side down in the cooker. You can also wrap the ham loosely in foil or place a piece of parchment paper over the top of the meat before putting the lid on. This helps the ham “self-baste” as the steam rises and falls.
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Is it safe to cook a frozen ham in the crockpot?
It is strongly recommended to thaw your ham completely in the refrigerator before putting it in the crockpot. A frozen ham takes too long to reach a safe temperature, meaning it spends too much time in the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F) where bacteria can grow rapidly.
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How long does leftover crockpot ham last?
Once cooked, leftover ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days. If you cannot finish it by then, you can freeze sliced ham or the ham bone for up to two months to use in future soups and stews.