Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham Recipe

Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine succulent ham, glazed to perfection with sweet and tangy flavors that dance on your palate, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that lures everyone in. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table.

As you slice into that juicy ham, each piece glistening with a luscious glaze, you can almost hear the oohs and aahs from your guests. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, this dish promises to be the highlight of your meal, making you the star chef of the day! Get ready to elevate your holiday feast with this delicious delight.

Ingredients for Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Ham: A 5-7 pound bone-in ham works best, providing flavor and moisture during cooking.
• Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds sweetness and caramelization to the glaze.
• Honey: Use good quality honey for an extra layer of sweetness in the glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice tanginess that balances the sweetness of the sugar and honey.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides acidity that cuts through the richness of the ham.
• Ground Cloves: Just a pinch gives a warm spice flavor that complements the ham beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ham

Start by placing your bone-in ham in the slow cooker. If it comes wrapped in plastic, remove it! You want all those delicious juices inside.

Step 2: Mix Your Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Whisk until smooth; this will be your magical glaze!

Step 3: Slather on The Goodness

Pour half of your glaze over the ham in the slow cooker. Use a brush or spatula to spread it evenly over every nook and cranny. Don’t be shy!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. Go ahead; watch some holiday movies while you wait!

Step 5: Glaze It Again

About an hour before serving, pour the remaining glaze over the ham again for that shiny finish. Your guests will thank you when they see (and smell) this beauty!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once cooked through and tender (you should be able to easily pull apart slices), transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the slow cooker for extra flavor.

With these steps completed, you’re ready to wow your family with an amazing Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham! Enjoy every moment of praise as you serve up this delectable dish at your holiday gathering.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your glaze while the ham warms up. Place the ham in the slow cooker, drizzle with glaze, then cover and let it cook low and slow until tender and juicy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices! Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the glaze for an extra zing. You can also swap honey for brown sugar if that’s what you’ve got.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, slice and warm gently in the slow cooker or microwave, adding a touch of glaze to keep it moist.

Creating this slow cooker glazed ham takes me back to last Thanksgiving when my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” The way he stuffed his face had us all laughing while I silently patted myself on the back.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham?

To prepare a delicious Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham, gather these essential ingredients: a fully cooked bone-in ham, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, and cinnamon. You can enhance the flavor with additional spices if desired. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the ham comfortably, allowing it to absorb all the flavors from the glaze.

How long does it take to cook the ham in a slow cooker?

For a Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham, cooking time generally ranges between 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the ham and your slow cooker model. To achieve optimal results, check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 140°F for safety and flavor. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the ham juicy and tender.

Can I prepare the glazed ham ahead of time?

Yes! One of the best features of this Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham is its convenience. You can prepare it in advance by assembling all ingredients and placing them in your slow cooker. If you want to prep further ahead, consider glazing and refrigerating the ham overnight before cooking it on Thanksgiving Day. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor as it marinates in the glaze overnight.

What sides pair well with glazed ham?

When serving Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham, consider pairing it with classic side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole. Other great options include sweet potato casserole or cranberry sauce for a refreshing contrast. These sides complement the sweet and savory notes of the glazed ham beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy during your Thanksgiving celebration.

Conclusion for Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham:

In summary, preparing a Make Ahead Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Glazed Ham offers both convenience and mouthwatering flavor for your holiday feast. By using simple ingredients like brown sugar and honey combined with slow cooking techniques, you ensure a moist and flavorful dish that delights everyone at your table. With easy preparation and versatile side dishes to accompany it, this recipe makes your Thanksgiving stress-free while impressing your guests with deliciousness they won’t forget.