As I lifted the lid of my slow cooker, the warm aroma of tangy mustard and sweet apple juice enveloped the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms simple ingredients into a beloved comfort dish. Perfect for busy evenings or gatherings with friends, you only need 15 minutes of hands-on prep, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic while you focus on what truly matters. With its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a creamy sauce that blends savory mustard flavors, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious to discover how to bring a touch of culinary delight to your table? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham transforms your kitchen into a gourmet haven with minimal effort.
Flavor explosion: A harmonious blend of tangy mustard, sweet apple juice, and creamy richness creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Versatile serving: Whether served on sliders, paired with your favorite sides, or used in tacos, this dish adapts to any gathering.
Perfect for leftovers: Store the ham in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep and stress-free weeknight dinners.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will savor this comforting dish, whether at family dinners or festive celebrations, where flavor meets convenience. For more hearty options, check out my Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Crack Chicken Gnocchi for added inspiration!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this mouthwatering dish!
For the Ham
- Boneless Ham (4-5 pounds) – The star of the recipe, providing a tender meat base, perfect for shredding.
For the Sauce
- Apple Juice – Adds subtle fruity sweetness and moisture, balancing the tangy notes of the mustard.
- Dijon Mustard – Brings a sharp, savory tang that is essential for a flavorful foundation; substitute with yellow mustard for a milder taste.
- Whole Grain Mustard – Offers a rustic flavor with textural interest thanks to its poppable mustard seeds.
- Honey – Sweetens the dish, softening the mustard’s edge for a perfect flavor balance.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps achieve a rich, caramelized sauce.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds bright acidity, complementing both the savory and sweet elements beautifully.
- Garlic Powder – Provides warmth and depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
- Onion Powder – Contributes subtle sweetness that merges seamlessly into the sauce.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat to round out the flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream – Transforms the cooking liquid into a luxuriously creamy sauce that envelops the ham.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens each serving with a fresh color and a hint of herbal flavor.
Now, with these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a delicious Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by placing the boneless ham in your slow cooker. Ensure it's nestled properly for even cooking. This Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham will need plenty of space to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the apple juice, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Continue whisking until all ingredients are fully combined, creating a rich and flavorful sauce to elevate your ham.
Step 3: Coat the Ham
Carefully pour the mustard mixture over the ham, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat as it cooks slowly, creating that tender, pull-apart texture unique to this recipe.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Allow the ham to cook for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is tender and easily shreds apart with a fork, releasing a tantalizing aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
Once the ham is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the ham into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat. This step creates perfectly tender pieces ready to soak in that creamy sauce.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld further and intensify. Keep an eye on it to prevent scorching while you prepare the next step.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend with the cooking liquid. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and achieves a silky consistency. This creamy sauce is essential for enhancing your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
Step 8: Combine Ham and Sauce
Return the shredded ham back into the slow cooker. Pour the thickened creamy mustard sauce over the ham, and gently stir to ensure every piece is coated. Let it sit on warm for a few minutes to meld the flavors together beautifully.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Scoop the ham onto plates or sliders, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful harmony of tastes and textures in your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham!
Expert Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
- Moisture Matters: Always cover your slow cooker to retain moisture, ensuring the ham stays tender throughout the cooking process.
- Coat for Flavor: Let the mustard mixture completely coat the ham before cooking to maximize flavor infusion.
- Fat Removal: When shredding the ham, discard any excess fat for a cleaner, more enjoyable dish.
- Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce while simmering; stir frequently to achieve a velvety consistency without scorching.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to customize sweetness by using different sugars like coconut sugar for a unique flavor twist in your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.
Storage Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the ham cool before sealing for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded ham in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Label each container for easy identification!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen ham overnight in the fridge. Warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Preservation: Keep the creamy mustard sauce and ham separate if you plan to freeze leftovers, as the sauce can separate when thawed. Enjoy your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham any time!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by adding your personal touch to this recipe!
- Mild Mustard: Substitute yellow mustard for a gentler flavor profile that still delivers delicious tang.
- Spicy Mustard: For those who crave a bit of heat, try using spicy brown mustard to amp up the flavor!
- Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for pure maple syrup to introduce an earthy sweetness that complements the mustard beautifully.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute to customize sweetness without the calories for a lighter dish.
- Apple Cider Swap: Replace apple juice with apple cider for a richer taste that enhances the autumnal flavors.
- Creamy Twists: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt after cooking for added creaminess and tanginess.
- Smoky Notes: Incorporate smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give the dish a delicious, smoky depth that pairs perfectly with ham.
- Flavor Explosion: Feel adventurous? Toss in chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a fragrant finish, and don't forget to try out my Creamy Shrimp Alfredo for more creamy delights!
What to Serve with Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham
Bring your table to life with delightful pairings that will elevate your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham into a full feast!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes soak up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a comforting bite that complements the ham perfectly.
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Fresh Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich creaminess of the ham. It's a classic side that never disappoints.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for sopping up those luscious mustard-infused juices. They invite you to take another bite, ensuring every morsel is savored.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots add a lovely color and natural sweetness to your plate, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with slivered almonds introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts with the ham’s creamy texture, making each forkful exciting.
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Savory Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie perfectly completes your meal. The sweet, spiced fruit complements the savory flavors, making it a comfort food classic.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce, refreshing your palate beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can mix the mustard sauce (apple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and other ingredients) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavors. Additionally, the boneless ham can be seasoned a day ahead; simply apply the mustard mixture and marinate it overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor infusion. When you're ready to cook, pop it in the slow cooker as directed and let it do all the work. Just remember to shred and return the ham to the sauce after cooking for that delicious, creamy finish!
Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a boneless ham weighing between 4-5 pounds. Look for one with a nice pinkish color and minimal dark spots. Avoid hams that appear dry or have an unusual odor.
How should I store leftovers from my Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let the ham cool down before sealing to maintain its tenderness. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I freeze the pulled ham?
Yes, you can freeze your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham! Portion the shredded ham into meal-sized containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label each container with the date so you can enjoy it at a later time without any confusion.
What if my sauce is too thin after simmering?
If your creamy mustard sauce is thinner than you’d like, don't worry! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This recipe contains common allergens such as mustard and dairy. If you or your guests have allergies, you might consider substituting yellow mustard for a milder option, and using a non-dairy cream alternative, like coconut cream, for the sauce.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
To intensify the sauce’s flavor, let the mustard mixture coat the ham thoroughly before cooking. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can also add a depth of umami flavor! Enjoy experimenting with the seasoning to make this dish uniquely yours.
Savory Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham for Comfort Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ham: Place the boneless ham in your slow cooker, ensuring it’s nestled properly for even cooking.
- Mix the Sauce: Whisk together the apple juice, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Coat the Ham: Carefully pour the mustard mixture over the ham, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
- Slow Cook the Ham: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Cook for 6 to 7 hours until tender.
- Shred the Ham: Remove the ham, shred it into bite-sized pieces using forks, discarding any excess fat.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine Ham and Sauce: Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over, gently stirring to coat.
- Serve and Garnish: Scoop the ham onto plates or sliders, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley.
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