Easy Slow Cooker Chipped Ham Barbecue Sandwiches Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve the best flavor, consider using a high-quality barbecue sauce that you enjoy, as it is the primary seasoning for this dish. If you prefer a smokier profile, you can add a small drop of liquid smoke, though this is entirely optional.

The sweetness of the brown sugar helps to balance the acidity of the ketchup base, so do not be tempted to reduce the amount, as it is essential for achieving the characteristic sticky, tangy glaze that makes these sandwiches so popular.

When serving, toast your sandwich buns before adding the ham. This provides a necessary crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, saucy meat. You can also offer a variety of toppings such as crisp pickles, thinly sliced raw onions, or even a slice of mild cheddar cheese to customize the experience.

Serving the sandwiches alongside a simple coleslaw or potato chips creates a classic, satisfying meal that is perfect for casual lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Ham: Add two tablespoons of hot sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the barbecue sauce before pouring it over the ham. This provides a pleasant heat that cuts through the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Smoky Onion Ham: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke into the sauce mixture. This addition brings a deeper, wood-fired flavor profile that complements the savory ham and sweet onions perfectly.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until hot, adding a splash of water if needed.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the ham has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than two hours to maintain food safety. When reheating, it is best to do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has become too thick during storage, to restore its original consistency and moisture.

This recipe is excellent for making ahead of time. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, simply place the insert into the slow cooker and start the cooking process. This makes it a perfect option for planning meals in advance for busy days or hosting casual gatherings where you want to minimize time spent in the kitchen.

Serving ideas

Serve the warm chipped ham mixture piled high on soft, toasted brioche or potato buns. The contrast between the toasted exterior of the bread and the tender, saucy ham is what makes this sandwich truly satisfying.

You may want to provide extra napkins, as these sandwiches are famously juicy and best enjoyed with a hearty appetite. For a complete meal, pair them with traditional sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad.

If you are serving a large group, you can keep the ham warm in the slow cooker on the 'keep warm' setting for a short period. This allows guests to assemble their own sandwiches as they please.

Providing a selection of condiments like mustard, mayonnaise, or hot sauce on the side allows everyone to adjust the flavor to their liking. This simple, interactive serving style is perfect for relaxed backyard barbecues or informal family dinners.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Slow Cooker Chipped Ham Barbecue Sandwiches

Prep 5 minCook 3 hTotal 3 h 5 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb paper-thin shaved deli ham
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups ketchup-based barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Place the paper-thin shaved deli ham into the slow cooker insert, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Scatter the diced yellow onion over the top of the ham to provide a savory base layer as it cooks.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the onions and ham. Pour the ketchup-based barbecue sauce over everything, ensuring the sauce coats the top layer of the ham and onions thoroughly.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours. Once finished, gently stir the mixture to ensure the sauce and ham are well-combined. Serve warm on your preferred sandwich buns.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

11 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

28 g

Sodium

1200 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.