Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Slow Cooker Ham and Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Sugar Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Ham and Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs cooked ham cubes; 3 cups peeled sweet potato chunks; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 4 tbsp butter, cut into pats

By Clara Weller · Oct 11, 2026

A close-up view of cooked ham cubes and soft sweet potato chunks in a rich

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 4 h
Total: 4 h 15 min
Serves: 4

Includes 5 min resting

Tips for success

For a slightly more complex flavor profile, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. These warm spices pair exceptionally well with the sweetness of the potatoes and the savory nature of the ham, creating a more sophisticated depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

If you prefer a caramelized finish on the potatoes, you can transfer the finished contents of the slow cooker to a baking dish and place it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This step helps to slightly brown the edges of the potatoes and thickens the glaze even further.

Variations

Savory Herb Twist: Replace the cinnamon with one tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary. This variation shifts the flavor profile from sweet to savory, making it a perfect accompaniment for roasted meats or as a side dish for festive holiday gatherings.
Spicy Kick: Add a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the brown sugar mixture. The heat provides a surprising and delightful contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a more dynamic and complex flavor profile.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of the sweet potatoes may become overly soft after thawing.
Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours.

When reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring gently to ensure the glaze remains smooth and does not separate. The flavors often meld and improve after a day in the refrigerator, making this an excellent option for leftovers.

This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply take it out, let it sit for about 30 minutes to come closer to room temperature, and then start the cooking process as directed. This saves significant time on busy mornings or when planning for a stress-free dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish warm, ideally directly from the slow cooker or transferred to a large serving bowl. The glaze will be quite hot, so allow it to sit for a few minutes before portioning.

It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet-savory profile of the main dish.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the ham and potatoes alongside crusty bread, which is perfect for mopping up the delicious, buttery cinnamon sauce.

A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans can also be added as a garnish just before serving to provide a creamy or crunchy contrast to the soft, tender ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

Can other types of potatoes be used instead of sweet potatoes?

While sweet potatoes provide the best results for this recipe due to their natural sugar content and texture, you can use yams or even firm-fleshed winter squash. Avoid using starchy baking potatoes, as they will not hold their shape well during the long slow-cooking process.

What is the best way to tell if the ham is fully heated?

Since the ham is already cooked, the goal is to heat it until it is steaming and tender. You can verify this by checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). The main focus, however, should be on the tenderness of the sweet potatoes.

Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, as the skin can sometimes become tough or stringy during the slow cooking process. If you prefer, you can scrub the potatoes thoroughly and leave the skins on, but be aware that the final texture will be slightly more rustic and chewy.

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Ham and Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Sugar

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

2 lbs cooked ham cubes
3 cups peeled sweet potato chunks
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
4 tbsp butter, cut into pats

Instructions

Place the cooked ham cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Arrange the peeled sweet potato chunks in an even layer over the ham. The layering ensures the potatoes cook evenly in the juices released by the ham.
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes. Finally, dot the surface with the pats of butter. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook on low for 4 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender and the ham is heated through. The sauce should be thickened and glossy. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to settle and coat the ingredients properly.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories: 420
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 4.5 g
Sugar: 28 g
Sodium: 950 mg

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

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This recipe is based on a short cooking video and is published under the pen name Clara Weller. It was checked before publication, but errors can slip through. Nutrition, when shown, is an estimate. Read more in our editorial policy and on our food safety page.