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As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a roast filling the air. Imagine flipping the switch on your trusty crockpot, allowing a tender spiral ham to slowly soak up a sweet and tangy beer and chutney glaze. This Crockpot Spiral Ham is not just a centerpiece; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ideal for those bustling family gatherings when you still want to impress without the stress.

After a whirlwind week, I found solace in a dish that practically prepares itself, allowing me to focus on creating memories rather than slaving over the stove. The rich blend of flavors—from the deep notes of the beer to the zesty pop of chutney—offers a unique twist on a holiday classic, delighting everyone gathered around the table.

Get ready to elevate your festive meals with this effortless recipe that guarantees tender, juicy slices and happy hearts, making any celebration a feast to remember.

Why is Crockpot Spiral Ham a must-try?

Effortless preparation: Toss everything in the crockpot and relax while it works its magic.
Succulent texture: Slow cooking ensures the ham is incredibly tender and juicy, perfect for holiday feasts.
Flavor explosion: A fantastic harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory, thanks to the beer and chutney glaze.
Crowd-pleaser: Guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Versatile serving: Pair it effortlessly with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to complete your meal.
Don’t forget to check out our tips on serving suggestions for delightful pairings that enhance this stunning centerpiece!

Crockpot Spiral Ham Ingredients

• Get ready to be amazed by this delightful holiday dish!

For the Ham
• Spiral Ham – Use a pre-sliced variety for easy serving and maximum flavor absorption.

For the Glaze
• Beer – Opt for lager or ale, adding depth to the glaze that complements the ham perfectly.
• Chutney – Pick a sweet variety like mango or peach chutney to achieve that essential flavor profile.
• Brown Sugar – Assists in caramelizing the glaze; you can substitute with maple syrup for a delicious twist.
• Mustard – Add either Dijon or yellow mustard for a tangy balance against the sweetness of the chutney and sugar.

Embrace the charm of this Crockpot Spiral Ham and marvel at how it transforms your holiday gatherings into something truly special!

How to Make Crockpot Spiral Ham

Prepare the Ham: Gently place the spiral ham into your crockpot, ensuring there’s enough room for the glaze to soak into the slices while fitting snugly.
Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine beer, chutney, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until the mixture is well blended, forming a smooth glaze that balances sweetness with a hint of tang.
Glaze the Ham: Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the ham, making sure it seeps between the slices for maximum flavor infusion.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking time will yield a tender and juicy ham that’s perfectly heated through.
Serve: Once done, slice the ham and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze for an extra burst of flavor before serving warm.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Spiral Ham preparations are perfect for busy hosts looking to streamline their holiday cooking! You can prep the glaze (beer, chutney, brown sugar, and mustard) up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix everything together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, the spiral ham can be placed in the crockpot and glazed the night before, ready for you to cook the next day—simply cover and refrigerate. When it’s time to cook, remove the ham from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then pour the chilled glaze over before cooking on low for 6-8 hours. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a delicious, stress-free holiday meal with minimal last-minute work!

What to Serve with Crockpot Spiral Ham?

A complete meal around your flavorful ham will create an unforgettable experience for your loved ones. Let’s elevate your holiday table with these delightful pairings!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, rich texture perfectly balances the sweet and tangy flavors of the ham, making each bite a comforting delight.
Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds vibrant colors and a hint of crunch, providing a lovely contrast to the ham’s tenderness.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the plate and balances the richness of the ham.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness brings out the ham’s glaze, creating a delightful harmony that everyone will enjoy.
Apple Sauce: A classic pairing that adds a fruity, tart note, enhancing the overall flavor profile while offering a nostalgic touch.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these rolls are perfect for soaking up that delicious beer and chutney glaze, completing your meal with a cozy finish.
Sparkling Cider: For a refreshing drink, consider serving bubbly cider to complement the flavors of the ham and glaze, creating a festive beverage choice for all ages!
Pecan Pie: End on a sweet note with this classic dessert, whose nutty flavor and caramel sweetness will resonate beautifully with the savory hints of the ham.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Spiral Ham

Fridge: Store leftover Crockpot Spiral Ham in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to slice the ham to preserve moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for best taste.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, drizzled with some leftover glaze for added flavor.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat before serving to enjoy that fresh, warm, and flavorful ham.

Crockpot Spiral Ham Variations

Explore the versatility of this delicious dish and make it your own with these fun swaps and enhancements!

Cider Swap: Replace the beer with hard cider for a fruitier twist that still provides depth and flavor.
Chutney Choices: Experiment with various chutneys, like cranberry for tartness or apple for a comforting sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an earthy flavor that elevates the ham’s profile.
Spice Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a subtle heat that complements the glaze’s sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free beer options to accommodate dietary restrictions without losing flavor.
Smoky Flavor: Introduce a hint of smoked paprika into the glaze for a savory twist that adds depth to the sweet elements.
Whole Grain Mustard: Use whole grain mustard instead of regular for added texture and a tangy bump in flavor.
Fruit Add-Ins: Toss a handful of dried fruits, like apricots or raisins, into the crockpot for a delightful surprise in every bite.

Don’t hesitate to blend and match these variations, creating a unique masterpiece that will leave your guests raving all night long!

Expert Tips for Crockpot Spiral Ham

Moisture Retention: Make sure the lid is tightly closed during cooking to keep the moisture locked in, resulting in a tender and juicy Crockpot Spiral Ham.
Ideal Glaze Thickness: If the glaze appears too thin, add a bit more brown sugar or a cornstarch slurry to achieve a thicker consistency that clings beautifully to the ham.
Check Temperature: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F for perfectly heated ham.
Glaze Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different chutneys or beers, like using hard cider for a delightful flavor twist.
Serve it Right: Accompany your ham with fresh sides, such as roasted veggies or a crisp salad, to create well-rounded meals that elevate your dining experience.
Perfect Storage: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, making wonderful sandwiches or salads for days to come!

Crockpot Spiral Ham with Beer and Chutney Glaze Recipe FAQs

What kind of ham should I use for my Crockpot Spiral Ham?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend going with a pre-sliced spiral ham as it not only provides that delicious structure and flavor, but it also makes serving easier. Look for one that’s fully cooked to ensure a straightforward preparation without further cooking complications.

How do I store leftover Crockpot Spiral Ham?
I often store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to slice the ham before storing to help retain its moisture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy delightful sandwiches or additional meals throughout the week!

Can I freeze Crockpot Spiral Ham?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently as described.

What should I do if my glaze is too thin?
Very good question! If your glaze doesn’t have that perfect thickness, don’t worry. You can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the glaze and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency before pouring it over the ham.

Can I modify the ingredients for dietary reasons?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to adjust the recipe for dietary needs, you can swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup for a different sweetness level. If you have allergies, always check the chutney’s ingredients and opt for gluten-free beer if needed. For a lower-sugar version, consider using sugar substitutes with similar flavor profiles!

How do I ensure my ham doesn’t dry out during cooking?
To keep your crockpot spiral ham moist, ensure the lid remains tightly sealed for the entire cooking process. Also, baste the ham with the glaze every couple of hours if possible. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours will achieve the best results with tender, juicy meat.