How to Cook a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker: Delicious Tips and Techniques to Impress Your Guests

ByAmelia Ellis Updated

How to Cook a Precooked Ham in a Slow Cooker?

To cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker, start by wrapping the ham in heavy-duty aluminum foil.

Place the wrapped ham in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the ham.

You can also add some liquid, such as water, broth, or apple juice, to the bottom of the slow cooker to keep the ham moist.

Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 135°F, it is ready to be served.

Let the ham sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Key Points:

  • Wrap the precooked ham in heavy-duty aluminum foil
  • Place the wrapped ham in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours
  • Add liquid, such as water, broth, or apple juice, to the bottom of the slow cooker to keep the ham moist
  • Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 135°F
  • Allow the ham to sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Did You Know?

1. Precooked ham trivia: Did you know that the term “ham” comes from the Old English word “hamm,” which originally referred to the hind leg of a pig? Over time, it evolved to represent the whole haunch of pork.

2. Slow cooker trivia: From ancient times, cooking vessels similar to slow cookers have been used in various cultures. For example, the Native Americans used hot stones to cook food slowly in a method known as “pit cooking.”

3. Ham glaze trivia: One popular glaze for a precooked ham is made with cola soda, but did you know that the carbonation in cola helps to tenderize the meat? The acidity and flavor of the soda also complement the sweetness of the ham.

4. Ham reheating trivia: When reheating precooked ham in a slow cooker, it’s important to avoid overcooking it as it may dry out. Wrapping the ham tightly in foil before placing it in the slow cooker can help retain moisture.

5. Ham storage trivia: Properly stored in the refrigerator, a precooked ham can last for up to a week. To maintain its freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent cross-contamination and minimize exposure to air.

Reheating Precooked Ham In The Oven

To reheat a precooked ham in the oven and maintain its flavors and texture, follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. This temperature ensures a slow and gentle reheating process, preventing the ham from drying out.

2. If your ham isn’t already wrapped, tightly wrap it in heavy-duty aluminum foil or use an oven roasting bag to retain its moisture while cooking.

3. Place the wrapped ham in a baking dish or on a baking sheet to catch any drippings.

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4. Calculate the cooking time based on the weight of the ham. A general rule of thumb is to cook for 10-14 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 135°F when measured with a meat thermometer.

5. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the ham from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.

Reheating Precooked Ham In The Microwave

If you’re in a rush and need to reheat your precooked ham quickly, the microwave is a convenient option. However, be cautious, as the result may not be as evenly cooked compared to other methods. Follow these steps for microwaving your precooked ham:

  • Carefully remove any packaging or wrapping from the ham and place it on a microwave-safe plate or dish.

  • Cover the ham with a microwave-safe cover or use a microwave-safe plastic wrap to prevent splattering.

  • Set the microwave to medium or medium-high power and cook the ham for 3 minutes per pound, rotating halfway through for consistent heating.

  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 135°F, which indicates that the ham is thoroughly reheated and safe to consume.

  • After microwaving, let the ham rest for a few minutes to allow the heat to distribute evenly before serving. Remember that microwaved ham may not have the same texture as oven reheated ham, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Reheating Precooked Ham On The Stove

Reheating precooked ham on the stove can be a quick and easy method that allows you to monitor the ham closely. Here’s how:

  1. Slice the precooked ham into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
  3. Place the ham slices into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and lightly browned.
  4. To prevent the ham from drying out, cover the skillet with a lid during part of the cooking process. This helps retain moisture and ensures a tender and juicy result.

  5. Once the ham is adequately reheated, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is essential for the flavors to develop and to avoid burning your mouth with piping hot ham.

  6. Slice the precooked ham

  7. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan with oil or butter
  8. Cook ham slices for 2-3 minutes per side
  9. Cover skillet with a lid to prevent drying out
  10. Let the ham rest before serving to develop flavors

“This step is essential for the flavors to develop and to avoid burning your mouth with piping hot ham.”

Reheating Precooked Ham In A Slow Cooker

Using a slow cooker to reheat precooked ham is an excellent choice for busy hosts who want to set it and forget it. Here’s how to do it:

  • Place the precooked ham in the slow cooker, adding any desired seasonings, such as cloves, cinnamon, or a glaze.

  • Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Slow cooking helps infuse the flavors and ensures the ham remains juicy and tender.

  • Cook the ham for approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the size and thickness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 135°F.

  • Once done, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The resting period allows the juices to settle and enhances the overall taste.

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Enjoying Reheated Ham With Leftover Sides, Vegetables, Or Fried Eggs

Now that you have perfectly reheated your precooked ham, it’s time to get creative with the accompaniments. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Leftover Sides: Serve your ham alongside classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy macaroni and cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

2. Vegetables: Sauteed greens, such as spinach or kale with garlic and olive oil, provide a healthy and flavorful balance to the richness of the ham.

3. Fried Eggs: Top your reheated ham with a sunny-side-up fried egg for a delightful breakfast or brunch. The creamy yolk complements the savory ham perfectly.

Let your creativity shine by combining different flavors and textures to create a memorable meal!

  • Leftover Sides: mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, creamy macaroni and cheese
  • Vegetables: sauteed greens (spinach or kale) with garlic and olive oil
  • Fried Eggs: sunny-side-up fried egg
  • Let your creativity shine by combining different flavors and textures

Glazing And Baking Precooked Ham For Added Flavor

If your precooked ham came with a glaze packet or you want to elevate its taste further, glazing and baking can unlock a whole new level of flavor. Follow these steps to bring out the best in your precooked ham:

  1. Follow the package directions to prepare and add the glaze to the ham. Glazes typically consist of a combination of sugar, spices, and liquids such as fruit juices or honey. This step adds a luscious and sweet caramelized coating to the ham.

  2. Brush the glaze evenly over the surface of the ham, ensuring that it covers it entirely.

  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F to create a high heat environment that will brown and bubble the glaze effectively.

  4. Place the glazed ham on a baking dish or roasting rack and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is nicely browned and bubbling.

  5. Allow the ham to rest for approximately 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the glaze to set and guarantees a flavorful and visually appealing presentation.

By following these glazing and baking steps, you can infuse your precooked ham with a burst of delightful flavors that will impress your guests.

  • With these valuable techniques and creative ideas, you’re now equipped to cook a precooked ham in a slow cooker and serve it in style. Whether you choose to reheat the ham in the oven, microwave, stove, or slow cooker, the most important thing is to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature for consuming.
  • So gather your desired cooking tools, experiment with glazes, and get ready to treat your guests to a sensational precooked ham feast that will have them coming back for seconds!
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you heat a precooked ham in a slow cooker?

While the USDA discourages reheating leftovers in a slow cooker, heating up a precooked ham in a slow cooker can be done carefully. To warm it through, place the ham in the slow cooker with a small amount of water or broth, enough to cover the bottom of the liner. It is important to maintain a minimum temperature of 140°F to ensure the ham is safe to eat.

What is the best way to cook a pre cooked ham?

One approach to cooking a pre-cooked ham is to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring that the cut side is facing down. Another option is to use an oven roasting bag, following the instructions provided on the bag. Both methods should yield delicious results. To cook the ham, preheat the oven to 325F and bake for approximately 10-14 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 135F, resulting in a perfectly cooked pre-cooked ham.

Do you cook ham on low or high in a slow cooker?

When cooking a ham in a slow cooker, the temperature setting depends on your schedule. If you have a limited amount of time, cooking on high for 4-6 hours will do the trick. However, if you prefer a more tender and flavorful result, opting for low and letting it cook for 6-8 hours will provide a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The beauty of this method lies in its flexibility, allowing you to choose the option that suits your needs best.

How do you cook a precooked ham without drying it out?

To retain moisture and prevent a precooked ham from drying out, an effective method is to employ a slow and gentle reheating process. Begin by placing the ham on a rack within a roasting pan. Next, add water to the bottom of the pan and seal it tightly with aluminum foil. To achieve optimal results, bake the ham at a temperature of 325°F for approximately 16-20 minutes per pound, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F as measured by a reliable meat thermometer. By utilizing this approach, you can enjoy a succulent and flavorful reheated ham without any undesirable dryness.