Slow Cooker Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To enhance the flavor, you can toast the dried thyme in a small, dry pan for thirty seconds before adding it to the dish. This releases the essential oils and provides a more fragrant, earthy undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Do not skip the resting time for the ham, as it allows the meat to retain its natural juices and ensures that every bite is as tender as possible.

If you prefer a more complex flavor profile, consider adding a tiny pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon to the brown sugar mixture. These spices complement the ham and carrots exceptionally well without overwhelming the dish.

When serving, spoon the excess sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker directly over the plated ham and carrots to maximize the flavor in every bite. This simple addition elevates the overall presentation and taste of the finished meal.

Variations

• Spicy Glazed Ham: Add a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a subtle, warming heat that balances the sweetness of the carrots and the richness of the butter.
• Citrus-Infused Ham: Include the zest of one orange in the seasoning mixture to provide a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the ham and adds a fresh, vibrant aroma.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture. The ham and carrots can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, try to keep the sauce with the meat and vegetables to prevent them from drying out. Ensure the food cools to room temperature for no more than two hours before placing it in the refrigerator to keep it safe for later consumption.

This recipe is excellent for preparing in advance. You can assemble the ham, carrots, and seasonings in the slow cooker insert the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Simply place the insert into the slow cooker base in the morning and start the cooking process. This is a perfect way to ensure a hot, home-cooked meal is ready the moment you walk through the door after a long day.

Serving ideas

Serve these ham steaks hot, directly from the slow cooker, with a generous ladle of the buttery brown sugar glaze poured over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that can soak up the flavorful sauce, such as mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a side of crusty bread.

The combination of the salty ham and sweet carrots creates a balanced profile that makes it a versatile main course for any casual weeknight dinner or family gathering.

When plating, use tongs to lift the ham steaks gently to keep them intact. Arrange the glazed carrots alongside the meat, ensuring they are well-coated in the sauce. For a pop of color, you can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional fresh thyme leaves.

The simplicity of the dish allows it to be served in a variety of ways, whether plated individually or presented family-style in a large serving dish for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

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

Ingredients

• 4 ham steaks
• 1 lb carrots, sliced into coins
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Place the ham steaks into the bottom of the slow cooker insert, overlapping them slightly to ensure they fit evenly across the base of the vessel.
2. Scatter the carrot coins over the ham steaks. Sprinkle the brown sugar and dried thyme evenly over the top of the carrots and ham, then drizzle the melted butter over everything.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the ham is heated through and the carrots are tender. Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

350

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

16 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

24 g

Sodium

950 mg

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