Slow Cooker Ginger Ale Pineapple Ham Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the most even glaze, press some brown sugar into the spiral cuts before adding the pineapple and ginger ale.

This ensures every slice has a sweet, caramelized edge. You can also rub the ham with a little of the pineapple juice before adding the sugar for extra flavor.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan after removing the ham and simmer it for 5 to 10 minutes until reduced. Spoon this over the sliced ham before serving. This extra step is optional but elevates the presentation.

Variations

• Spicy Ginger Ham: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of cayenne to the brown sugar for a warm kick. The spice balances the sweetness without overpowering the ham.
• Citrus Pineapple Ham: Replace the ginger ale with orange soda or add the zest and juice of one orange along with the ginger ale. This brightens the glaze and adds a fresh citrus note.
• Maple Bourbon Ham: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup and use 1/4 cup bourbon plus enough ginger ale to make 12 ounces. The bourbon adds a smoky depth that pairs well with the pineapple.
• Cherry Cola Ham: Use cherry cola instead of ginger ale and add 1 cup of frozen cherries along with the pineapple. The dark soda gives a deeper color and a fruity, slightly tart flavor.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftover ham and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze ham slices with a little glaze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheat

Reheat frozen or refrigerated ham in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of ginger ale to prevent drying.

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the glaze and pineapple with the ham to maintain moisture.

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of ginger ale or water to keep it from drying out.

You can assemble the ham, pineapple, brown sugar, and ginger ale in the slow cooker insert the night before, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed.

This saves time on a busy holiday morning. Be sure to let the insert come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before turning on the heat to avoid thermal shock.

Serving ideas

Serve the ham sliced, with the pineapple chunks and a generous spoonful of glaze over each portion. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple green salad. The sweet glaze also complements roasted root vegetables or a tangy coleslaw.

For a holiday spread, let the ham be the centerpiece and offer dinner rolls, a cheese board, or a fruit salad alongside.

The leftovers make incredible sandwiches with a swipe of mustard or a smear of mayonnaise. The glaze can also be stirred into rice or quinoa for a sweet-savory side.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Ginger Ale Pineapple Ham

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 12

Ingredients

• 1 spiral-sliced ham (about 6-8 lb)
• 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz), drained
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can ginger ale (12 oz)

Instructions

1. Set the spiral-sliced ham flat side down in the slow cooker insert. If the ham is too large, trim the bottom slightly to make it fit snugly. The ham should sit evenly without tipping. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
2. Scatter the drained pineapple chunks evenly around and over the ham. Tuck some between the slices so the fruit can perfume the meat as it cooks.
3. Pack the brown sugar into a small bowl, then sprinkle it evenly over the ham and pineapple. Use your fingers to press some of the sugar into the spiral cuts so it melts into the meat.
4. Pour the ginger ale slowly around the edges of the ham, not directly over the sugar, so the sugar stays in place. The liquid should come about a quarter of the way up the ham.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, until the ham is heated through and the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C). Avoid opening the lid during the first 3 hours to keep the heat steady. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
6. After 2 to 2 1/2 hours, carefully open the lid and spoon the bubbling glaze over the top of the ham. Re-cover and continue cooking for the remaining time. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
7. When the ham reaches 145°F (63°C), transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 3 minutes. Then slice along the spiral cuts and arrange on a platter with the pineapple and glaze.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

480

Protein

25 g

Carbohydrates

38 g

Fat

25 g

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