Nothing brings the family together quite like a hearty, flavorful, slow-cooked meal. At the heart of comfort food is one standout dish that captures sweet and savory perfection in every bite—Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. Juicy, tender, and glazed with a caramelized mix of brown sugar and pineapple juice, this ham is the perfect main course for holidays, Sunday dinners, or any time you want a no-fuss, satisfying dish.
This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s simple, foolproof, and practically effortless, thanks to the convenience of the slow cooker. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this family-favorite ham recipe a centerpiece on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Ham Recipe
- Set it and forget it: Minimal prep, hands-free cooking in the Crock Pot.
- Flavor-packed: Sweet brown sugar, tangy pineapple, and the smoky saltiness of ham combine beautifully.
- Great for leftovers: Perfect for sandwiches, casseroles, or breakfast hash.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a comforting family meal.
Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Here’s what you need for this incredibly easy slow-cooked masterpiece:
- 1 fully cooked spiral ham (6–8 lbs, bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits or slices, with juice
- 1/2 cup honey (optional, for extra sweetness and glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for warm spice notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, balances sweetness)
How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot
Choose a large 6–8 quart slow cooker. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray or line with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Add the Ham
Place the spiral ham flat-side down in the Crock Pot. If the lid doesn’t fully close, you can trim the ham or cover the slow cooker with foil before placing the lid on top.
Step 3: Layer with Flavor
Sprinkle brown sugar over the top and sides of the ham. Pour the pineapple juice and pineapple chunks over the ham, allowing the juice to settle in the bottom. Drizzle with honey if using.
If you want an added layer of complexity, sprinkle in cloves and mustard at this stage.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook the ham on LOW for 4–6 hours, basting with the juices occasionally. Spiral hams are pre-cooked, so you’re warming and infusing them with flavor. Do not overcook, or the meat may dry out.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, carefully remove the ham and place it on a serving platter. Spoon some of the glaze and pineapple over the top for a stunning presentation. Slice and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Ham
- Use spiral-cut ham for easy serving and better glaze penetration.
- Don’t discard the juice—it’s perfect as a sauce or glaze on the side.
- Baste occasionally for extra moisture and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste—cut back on honey or sugar if preferred.
What to Serve with Pineapple Ham
This sweet and savory ham pairs perfectly with both traditional and tropical sides. Consider serving it with:
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole
- Buttered corn or green beans
- Hawaiian rolls or cornbread
- Macaroni and cheese
- Coleslaw or fruit salad
It’s a versatile centerpiece that fits into nearly any meal spread.
Leftover Ideas You’ll Love
Don’t let a single slice go to waste. Here are creative ways to enjoy leftovers:
- Ham and cheese sliders on Hawaiian rolls
- Ham fried rice with veggies and scrambled eggs
- Breakfast hash with potatoes, eggs, and onions
- Ham and pineapple pizza for a sweet-savory pie
- Pasta dishes or creamy casseroles using chopped ham
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions in sealed freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a bit of juice or broth to keep it moist.
Make-Ahead & Holiday Hosting Tips
If you’re serving this for a special occasion:
- Prep everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and start cooking in the morning.
- Double the glaze recipe if you’re serving a larger ham or want extra sauce on the side.
- Use a Crock Pot with a warm setting to keep the ham hot during buffets or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition. It’s incredibly flavorful, perfectly moist, and beautifully glazed with a rich mix of brown sugar and pineapple. And the best part? It takes minimal effort—just a few ingredients, one pot, and time to let the slow cooker do all the work.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply want a cozy dinner with the family, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. From the moment the sweet aroma fills your kitchen to the last juicy bite, this ham will earn its place as a true comfort classic in your home.
