It all began with a quiet Sunday evening, the kind that calls for something cozy and comforting. Enter Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham, a delightful dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked food right to your table. This beginner-friendly recipe is genuinely a blessing for busy cooks—it requires only 15 minutes of prep before letting the slow cooker work its magic. Picture tender, succulent ham mingling with a creamy mustard sauce that strikes that perfect balance between sweet and savory. Whether you are hosting a family gathering or simply indulging in a hearty meal, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that transforms leftovers into something delectable, making it perfect for meal prepping! Can you feel the excitement bubbling up for your next dinner? Let's dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: With only 15 minutes of prep, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is essential.
Creamy, Tangy Goodness: The luxurious mustard sauce elevates the pulled ham, delivering a delightful mix of sweet and savory that everyone will love.
Meal Prep Hero: Leftovers transform effortlessly into tasty sandwiches or wraps, making this dish ideal for planning your week ahead.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, you can count on this recipe to wow your audience—pair it with crusty rolls or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Versatile Substitutions: Want to mix it up? You can switch out mustards or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. For other comforting recipes, check out my Chicken Mustard Sauce or indulge in a Ham Cheese Croissant for breakfast!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
• Boneless Ham (4-5 pounds) – Choose a high-quality ham for maximum tenderness and flavor.
For the Sauce
• Apple Juice or Cider (1 cup) – Adds moisture and sweetness; white grape juice serves as a great substitute.
• Dijon Mustard (½ cup) – Infuses the dish with that essential sharp flavor; yellow mustard can offer a milder option.
• Whole Grain Mustard (¼ cup) – Provides texture and rustic notes; any coarse mustard variety works well here.
• Honey (¼ cup) – Brings natural sweetness to balance flavors; swap with maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances sweetness and caramel notes; feel free to use light or dark brown sugar.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Brightens the dish’s flavor and cuts through its richness; lemon juice is a good alternative.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds a mild flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a more potent profile.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Gives a sweet depth; fresh onions are an option but might alter the texture.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds warmth and spice; adjust according to personal preference.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Creates that rich creamy sauce; half-and-half can lighten it up if desired.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to your serving dish.
This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham recipe is a delicious blend of flavors that is sure to become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Place your boneless ham, weighing about 4-5 pounds, directly into the slow cooker base. Make sure it fits snugly but is not pressed against the sides. This is where the magic begins, so take a moment to appreciate the quality of your meat, which will ensure a flavorful outcome.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of apple juice or cider, ½ cup of Dijon mustard, ¼ cup of whole grain mustard, ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. This creamy mustard mixture will give a tangy lift to your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham, so make sure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared mustard sauce evenly over the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring that every inch of the meat is covered. Use a spatula to gently coat the ham, allowing the flavors to infuse nicely while it cooks. This delightful coating will create a rich sauce as it simmers together.
Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat, allowing the ham to cook for 6-7 hours. The time will vary based on the size of the ham, but your goal is to achieve a tender meat texture that easily pulls apart with a fork. Don’t be tempted to raise the heat; slow cooking ensures a juicy result.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
Once the time is up and your kitchen is filled with delightful aromas, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker using tongs. Let it rest for a few moments on a cutting board before shredding it with two forks. This is where the Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham transforms into tender, flavorful strands.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker, allowing it to simmer until slightly thickened, about 5-10 minutes. The essence of the ham and mustard will concentrate, making it even more delicious. Once reduced, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream for a luscious texture that coats the ham beautifully.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the pulled ham back into the slow cooker, mixing it well with the creamy sauce to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to warm through for an additional 10 minutes on low heat, then serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham is ready to enjoy!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your family's taste buds!
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Different Mustards: Experiment with spicy brown mustard for heat or a sweet apple mustard for a fruity twist. Each variant adds an exciting new flavor note to your pulled ham.
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Sweetness Switch: Replace honey with maple syrup for a richer aroma or opt for agave to keep it vegan—all while still achieving that perfect sweetness!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese during the final heating stage for a creamy, cheesy sauce that's a crowd-pleaser in every bite.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some carrots and potatoes in the slow cooker for added veggies! They'll soak up all the flavorful sauce and add delightful texture.
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Add a Kick: For those who like a bit of spice, mix in some red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for a zesty punch that lifts the whole dish.
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Serving Options: Serve the pulled ham on mini slider buns for delightful bite-sized sandwiches, or pile it high on mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
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Herbal Touch: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary incorporated into the sauce for a fragrant, herbaceous depth that elevates the dish further.
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Tortilla Wraps: Roll up the pulled ham in tortillas with crunchy slaw for a fun twist on leftovers. You might even pair it with a spicy salsa for an extra kick!
For more incredible flavors, consider pairing with comforting options like Shrimp Alfredo or a delectable Crack Chicken Gnocchi for a meal that's sure to impress!
What to Serve with Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Imagine the comforting aromas filling your home as you prepare a feast to accompany this hearty dish—perfect for cozy gatherings or just a simple family dinner.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes balances the zesty mustard sauce beautifully, creating a comforting staple that everyone loves. Top with a drizzle of the creamy sauce for an elevated touch.
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Crunchy Coleslaw: This refreshing, tangy salad adds crunch and a pop of color to your plate, complementing the succulent pulled ham perfectly while brightening the meal.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory carrots enhance the dish’s flavors, bringing a delightful texture contrast that makes each bite a joyous experience.
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Garlic Herb Bread: Crusty bread brushed with garlic herb butter is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce left on your plate, transforming each bite into a delightful indulgence.
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Sour Cream and Chive Dip: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer that offers a creamy, rich contrast to the pulled ham's bold flavors, making it a snack everyone will enjoy.
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Apple Crisp: End the meal with a warm apple crisp, whose cozy sweetness echoes the ham's flavors, creating a delightful finish that feels like a hug in dessert form.
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White Wine Spritzer: Light and refreshing, this drink pairs wonderfully to cleanse the palate between bites, helping to highlight the dish’s creamy mustard notes beautifully.
Storage Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Fridge: Store your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in meal-sized bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label bags with dates for easy reference.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water for moisture if needed.
Serving Suggestions: This dish is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served alongside your favorite sides, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as the first!
Expert Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
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Choose Quality Ham: The better the ham, the more tender and flavorful your dish will be. Look for boneless, high-quality cuts for the best results.
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Simmer for Depth: Allow the cooking liquid to simmer longer before adding cream to concentrate the flavors. A richer sauce elevates your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
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Avoid Overcooking: Monitor the cooking time carefully. The ham should shred easily with a fork; if it becomes too dry, it can lose its juicy appeal.
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Customize the Mustard: Experiment with different mustard varieties to find your perfect flavor balance. Not a fan of Dijon? Go for a milder yellow mustard instead.
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Store Properly: Cool any leftovers thoroughly before storing them in airtight containers. This keeps your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Make Ahead Options
These Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the mustard sauce (apple juice, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavors. Additionally, you can also place the boneless ham in the slow cooker and coat it with the prepared sauce, ready to cook up to 6 hours before serving. This method ensures your ham is just as delicious and tender after reheating in the slow cooker. When ready to enjoy, simply let the slow cooker do its magic while you focus on other tasks—delivering a comforting meal with minimal effort!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the right ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a boneless ham weighing between 4-5 pounds. I recommend choosing a high-quality cut to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor. Avoid hams with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging, as these can indicate age or poor quality.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure they cool down to room temperature before sealing. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture, ideal for meal prep.
Can I freeze the pulled ham for later?
Very! To freeze, portion the pulled ham into meal-sized bags or containers after it has cooled completely. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What are common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your ham comes out too dry, it may have cooked for too long or wasn't juicy enough at the start. Aim for 6-7 hours on low, checking it for tenderness towards the end. To enhance flavor, you can let the cooking liquid simmer longer before adding cream—this steps up the depth significantly!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Yes, definitely! If you're serving this dish to guests, be aware of any mustard allergies, as the recipe features both Dijon and whole grain mustards. For those who are lactose intolerant, substituting heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream can provide a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
How can I customize the mustard flavor in the sauce?
The more the merrier! You can easily mix and match different mustard varieties—try using yellow mustard for a milder taste or even experiment with spicy brown mustard for a kick. Simply adjust the amounts to suit your palate while making sure to maintain the overall quantity to keep the balance of the sauce intact.
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham: Easy Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place your boneless ham directly into the slow cooker base, ensuring it fits snugly without pressing against the sides.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together apple juice or cider, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mustard sauce evenly over the ham, ensuring it is fully covered.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat for 6-7 hours until the ham is tender.
- Once done, remove the ham using tongs and let it rest before shredding it with forks.
- Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, then stir in heavy cream.
- Return the pulled ham to the slow cooker, mixing it with the creamy sauce and allowing it to warm through.
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