As the sun dips below the horizon, I hear the soothing sound of my slow cooker working its magic. There’s something mesmerizing about watching a humble piece of ham transform into a mouthwatering dish. Our Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham combines the delightful zing of Dijon and the sweetness of honey, creating a velvety sauce that envelops tender, shredded meat. This recipe not only offers the ease of hands-off cooking but also guarantees a family-friendly meal that's a hit at any gathering. Whether served on fluffy rolls or alongside mashed potatoes, it brings comfort to the table and smiles all around. Ready to dive into a recipe that makes dinnertime as stress-free as it is delicious? Let’s get started!

What Makes This Ham Recipe Special?

Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.

Rich, Creamy Sauce: The blend of Dijon mustard and honey creates a tangy yet sweet sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on slider buns, with mashed potatoes, or in tacos for a fun twist. No matter how you serve it, it’s bound to impress!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish is a guaranteed winner for family gatherings or potlucks. It’s not just food; it’s a comforting experience.

Gluten-Free Adaptation: With simple swaps, this recipe accommodates dietary preferences, making it inclusive for everyone at the table—just check your condiments!

Meal Prep Dream: Leftovers can be stored for up to four days, making this recipe ideal for meal prepping. Try transforming them into a hearty omelet or a dip for chips!

Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Boneless Ham (4-5 pounds) – A tender base is essential for the best results, so choose high-quality ham.

For the Sauce
• Apple Juice or Cider (1 cup) – Adds moisture and subtle sweetness; pineapple juice can also be a tasty substitute.
• Dijon Mustard (½ cup) – This tangy flavor forms the backbone of the sauce; yellow mustard can be a milder option.
• Whole Grain Mustard (¼ cup) – Offers a unique texture; substitute with spicy brown mustard for a different kick.
• Honey (¼ cup) – Balances the tang with natural sweetness; feel free to swap for maple syrup if you prefer.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances the sweetness and caramel notes; coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Brightens the flavors, but white vinegar can work in a pinch.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Complements the garlic powder for a well-rounded taste.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Gives subtle warmth; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Creates a luscious, creamy sauce; non-dairy or coconut cream are great substitutes.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness that elevates the final dish.

Feel free to explore the endless deliciousness of this Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham

Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Begin by placing the boneless ham in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the foundation for your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham. Ensure the ham fits snugly; this maximizes flavor infusion during cooking.

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 until smooth. The rich, tangy aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Coat the Ham
Pour the mustard mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. Use a spatula if necessary to scrape every last bit of sauce, as this will contribute to the tender and flavorful final dish.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Ham
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to low for 6-7 hours. As it cooks, the ham will become incredibly tender and should pull apart easily with a fork once it's done. You’ll know it’s ready when it shreds effortlessly.

Step 5: Shred the Ham
Once cooked, carefully remove the ham from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat for a cleaner texture. The aroma will be intoxicating!

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Transfer the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. This step intensifies the flavors while allowing you to create that velvety sauce that makes this dish so special.

Step 7: Add Heavy Cream
Stir in the heavy cream into the simmering liquid, blending it well to create a creamy, luscious sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon beautifully.

Step 8: Combine and Serve
Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker and pour the creamy mustard sauce over it, stirring gently to coat every piece. This final step ensures that each bite of your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham bursts with flavor.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve the pulled ham warm and, if desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Whether on slider buns, with mashed potatoes, or as a filling for tacos, this comforting dish is ready to impress your family and friends.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham

The perfect meal deserves delightful accompaniments that elevate the flavors and textures, creating a fulfilling dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes soak up the savory sauce beautifully, adding a comforting element to your meal.
Crunchy Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy ham, balancing richness with a snap.
Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft and pillowy, these rolls are perfect for mopping up every drop of the luscious mustard sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, provides a vibrant side filled with flavor and nutrients.
Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries add a hint of sweetness that complements the tangy sauce and make for a fun, casual touch.
Pickle Chips: Their sharp vinegar tang cuts through the creaminess perfectly, providing a zesty, palate-cleansing crunch with each bite.
Apple Cider Mimosas: A light, fizzy drink made with fresh apple cider adds a festive touch and balances the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this warm, gooey treat is perfect for sharing, bringing a decadent end to your comforting meal.

Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas to make this delightful dish even more your own!

Gluten-Free: Ensure all mustards and condiments are certified gluten-free for a worry-free meal that everyone can enjoy.
Taco Night Twist: Use tortillas to create pulled ham tacos topped with fresh slaw and a drizzle of lime. It’s a fun, handheld option!
Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that gives the sauce an autumnal twist, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Try using jackfruit in place of ham for a delightful plant-based version of this creamy dish—season it similarly for a satisfying meal!
Sausage Addition: Add slices of smoked sausage to the slow cooker for a smoky flavor that complements the tangy sauce and adds a new texture.
Asian Flair: Replace the mustard with hoisin sauce and top with sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired pulled ham dish that offers a delightful alternative.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cooking liquid for a warming heat that will wake up your taste buds.
Serving Style: Transform leftovers into ham sliders! Just pile the pulled ham and sauce onto small rolls for a perfect party appetizer, alongside a side of creamy coleslaw.

These variations will not only excite your taste buds but will also make each serving feel like a brand-new culinary adventure! If you’re in the mood for more delicious ideas, check out Chicken Mustard Sauce for a heavenly pairing or give Ham Cheese Croissant a try for a mouthwatering breakfast idea!

Make Ahead Options

These Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham preparations are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can prepare the mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the apple juice, mustards, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ham can be placed in the slow cooker and refrigerated overnight if needed as well. When you're ready to serve, just pour the chilled sauce over the ham and set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours. Rest assured, this delicious dish will taste just as wonderful, saving you precious cooking time while still bringing smiles to the dinner table!

Expert Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham

Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a good-quality boneless ham to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor in your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.

Substitution Savvy: Feel free to swap ingredients like honey for maple syrup or apple juice for pineapple juice to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Snug Fit: Make sure the ham fits tightly in the slow cooker. A snug fit helps the flavorful sauce permeate every inch of the meat for a richer taste.

Simmer for Thickness: Don’t skip the step of simmering the cooking liquid with cream. This crucial step thickens the sauce and enhances the flavor profile.

Proper Shredding: When shredding the ham, be sure to remove any tough pieces or excess fat for a cleaner texture that makes for a more enjoyable bite.

Mind the Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days; reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture of your delicious ham.

Storage Tips for Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pulled ham in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely, then portion before freezing for easy meal prep.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce's velvety texture.

Airtight Guidance: Ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and preserve the delicious flavors of your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham.

Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham Recipe FAQs

What kind of ham should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a good-quality boneless ham. Look for one that is nicely marbled for added flavor and tenderness. Avoid hams with dark spots or excessive gristle, as these can affect the final dish's texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the pulled ham cool completely before sealing to retain moisture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled ham in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. First, allow it to cool completely, then portion it out for easy meal prep. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, and when you're ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its velvety texture.

What if my sauce isn’t thick enough?
No worries! If your sauce isn't as thick as you'd like, simply transfer the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer on medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remember, this step is crucial for that creamy mouthfeel!

Are there gluten-free options for the ingredients?
Very! To ensure your Slowcooker Creamy Mustard Pulled Ham accommodates gluten-free diets, check all condiment labels carefully, especially for Dijon and whole grain mustard. Opt for brands that specifically state they are gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comforting meal together.