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Slow Cooker Ham and Onions

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Slow Cooker Ham and Onions

Description

Slow Cooker Ham and Onions is a simple yet incredibly flavorful comfort food recipe that transforms a fully cooked ham into a juicy, tender centerpiece with almost no effort. Thick slices of ham slowly cook over a bed of sweet onions, allowing the onions to caramelize while the ham absorbs all of the savory juices. A blend of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and broth creates a light glaze that keeps the meat moist and enhances its natural smoky flavor. The result is fork-tender ham with buttery onions that melt in your mouth. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday family meals, meal prep, or busy weeknights when you want a hearty homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, rice, or fresh dinner rolls for a complete meal. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this slow cooker ham recipe delivers comforting, homestyle flavor every time.

Ingredients For the Ham

  • 3–4 lb fully cooked boneless ham
  • 2 large sweet onions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Glaze

  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease a 6- to 7-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or a little butter.

Step 2: Add the Onions

Spread the sliced onions evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. Dot with butter and drizzle with olive oil.

Step 3: Mix the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.

Step 4: Place the Ham

Set the ham on top of the onions with the cut side facing down.

Step 5: Coat the Ham

Pour the glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it runs down the sides.

Step 6: Cover

Place the lid securely on the slow cooker.

Step 7: Cook

Cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours, occasionally spooning some of the juices over the ham if convenient.

Step 8: Check for Doneness

The ham is ready when it is heated through, tender, and the onions are soft and caramelized.

Step 9: Rest

Transfer the ham to a cutting board and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 10: Slice

Slice the ham into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference.

Step 11: Spoon the Onions

Arrange the sliced ham on a serving platter and spoon the caramelized onions over and around the meat.

Step 12: Serve

Drizzle a little of the cooking juices over the ham and garnish with chopped parsley and cracked black pepper before serving.

Tips, Notes & Q&A

Tips

  • Sweet onions become wonderfully tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
  • Basting the ham with the cooking juices once or twice adds even more flavor.
  • Add baby potatoes or carrots during the last few hours for a complete one-pot meal.
  • For a sweeter glaze, stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
  • Leftover ham is excellent in sandwiches, omelets, soups, casseroles, and fried rice.

Can I use a spiral-cut ham?
Yes. Reduce the cooking time slightly since spiral-cut ham heats more quickly.

How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled ham and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze sliced ham with some of the cooking juices in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, green beans, buttered corn, rice, or homemade dinner rolls.

Servings

Serves 8

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 33g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 980mg

Slow Cooker Ham and Onions is a classic comfort food recipe that combines juicy, tender ham with buttery caramelized onions and a flavorful homemade glaze. Easy to prepare and perfect for holidays, family dinners, or meal prep, this hearty slow cooker meal delivers rich, homestyle flavor with minimal effort and is sure to become a favorite at your table.

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