Slow Cooker Root Beer Glazed Ham Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more polished presentation, you can transfer the remaining cooking liquid to a small saucepan after removing the ham and simmer it over medium heat until it thickens further. This reduced glaze can then be drizzled over the carved slices right before serving, ensuring each piece is perfectly coated in the sweet, spiced liquid. This step adds a professional touch to the final dish.

If you find the glaze is not thick enough for your preference after the cooking time is complete, remove the ham and set the slow cooker to high with the lid off. Let the liquid reduce for 10 to 15 minutes while the ham rests. Be mindful that the sugar content makes the liquid prone to burning quickly, so monitor it closely and stir occasionally until the desired consistency is achieved.

Variations

• Spiced Root Beer Ham: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground nutmeg to the brown sugar mixture for a warmer, more aromatic spice profile that emphasizes the root beer notes.
• Citrus Infused Ham: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the slow cooker along with the root beer. The acidity of the orange cuts through the sweetness of the sugar and root beer.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered baking dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven with a splash of water to keep the meat moist until heated through.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the ham can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

For longer storage, the ham can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Always ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the meat from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

This dish is excellent for making ahead of time. You can prepare the slow cooker with the ham and seasonings the night before, keeping the insert in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply place the cold insert into the slow cooker base and start the cooking process. This is a convenient strategy for holiday meals or dinner parties where you want to minimize active time in the kitchen on the day of the event.

Serving ideas

Serve the ham warm, fanned out on a large platter to showcase the spiral slices. This presentation allows guests to easily serve themselves while highlighting the glossy, caramelized glaze.

Accompany the ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness of the root beer glaze. The contrast between the savory ham and the sweet sauce makes it a versatile main.

Consider serving the remaining glaze in a small gravy boat alongside the ham. This allows guests to add extra sauce to their portions if desired. Because the flavor is quite rich, a little goes a long way, but providing the option is a thoughtful touch for any meal.

Ensure the ham is carved into thick, even slices to maintain its structural integrity and presentation on the plate, making for a beautiful centerpiece.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Root Beer Glazed Ham

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

Ingredients

• 1 whole spiral-cut ham (about 8-10 lbs)
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp whole cloves
• 2 cups root beer

Instructions

1. Place the spiral-cut ham into the center of the slow cooker ceramic insert. Ensure the ham sits securely at the bottom of the vessel to allow for even heat distribution during the long cooking process.
2. Evenly distribute the brown sugar over the top of the ham. Sprinkle the whole cloves around the sides of the ham, then pour the root beer carefully over the meat, ensuring the liquid reaches the base of the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the ham from the slow cooker, let it rest for at least 10 minutes, and serve with the reduced cooking juices.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

0 g

Sugar

20 g

Sodium

1100 mg

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