There’s something magical about the aroma of a Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham wafting through your home. Picture this: tender, juicy ham glazed to perfection with a sweet and tangy maple-dijon sauce that will have everyone begging for seconds. Trust me, your taste buds will do a happy dance when you take that first bite!

Now, imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter while indulging in this delightful dish. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating memories. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, this Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham is the star of the show, promising an unforgettable flavor experience that’ll leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham

This incredible Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham:

Bone-In Ham: A larger bone-in ham works best for this recipe; aim for around 6-8 pounds to feed a crowd.
Maple Syrup: Use real maple syrup for an authentic sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
Dijon Mustard: A good quality Dijon mustard adds that delightful tanginess to balance out the sweetness.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will enhance the glaze’s richness and caramelization during cooking.
Pineapple Juice: Adds a fruity sweetness and keeps the ham moist as it cooks in the slow cooker.

For the Sauce:

Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the glaze.

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

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham:

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Start by greasing your slow cooker with nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier because let’s be honest—we all want fewer dishes to wash.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ground cinnamon until smooth. This glaze is like liquid gold—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious!

Step 3: Score the Ham

Place your ham on a cutting board and score it in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. Don’t worry; we’re not trying to win any culinary awards here—just make some slits so that glaze can seep in like it’s having its own spa day.

Step 4: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Put your scored ham into the slow cooker and pour half of that luscious glaze over it. Save the other half for later because we’re going to bathe this beauty in flavor.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about six hours. The low-and-slow approach allows those flavors to mingle beautifully while keeping your ham tender.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

When there’s about an hour left of cooking time, brush on that remaining glaze. Once done, transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! The aroma filling your kitchen will draw everyone in like moths to a flame. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham alongside some roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

You Must Know About Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham

This showstopping Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by scoring the ham for better flavor absorption. Sear it briefly to develop a nice crust, then combine maple syrup and Dijon mustard in the slow cooker. Add the ham and let it work its magic over low heat for six to eight hours.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out maple syrup for honey if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang or toss in some garlic cloves for an extra kick. The beauty of this Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham is its versatility.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, slice individual portions and warm them gently in a skillet or microwave, drizzling some reserved sauce over top to keep things moist and flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham

This professional-quality Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking this dish reminds me of the time my friends surprised me with a potluck dinner, and I brought this ham. They raved about it all night! Nothing beats good food shared among friends.

FAQs

What is Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham?

Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tangy zest of Dijon mustard. This recipe utilizes a slow cooker to create tender, flavorful ham that becomes infused with the rich sauce over time. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The slow cooking method ensures that the ham remains juicy and succulent throughout the cooking process.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham?

Cooking Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The exact cooking time depends on the size of the ham and your specific slow cooker model. To ensure optimal results, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). This will guarantee that your ham is not only safe to eat but also perfectly tender.

Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of ham for the Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham recipe. While bone-in hams are popular for their flavor and moisture retention, boneless hams work equally well. You might also consider using a smoked or spiral-cut ham, as both options will enhance the overall taste. Just adjust the cooking times slightly based on the type of ham you choose to ensure it cooks evenly.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham?

When serving Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also add classic sides like baked beans or coleslaw for a more traditional touch. Additionally, serving crusty bread or dinner rolls can help soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate. These combinations create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Maple Dijon Ham is an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a flavorful and easy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard elevates the dish while keeping it simple. Remember to choose your favorite type of ham and cook it until it’s perfectly tender. With just a few sides, you can turn this dish into a delightful feast that will impress your family and friends during any gathering.