Crock Pot Pulled Ham

By:

Marry

Published:

May 6, 2026

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about pulled ham that draws people together. The savory, smoky flavors enveloped in a sweet apricot and BBQ sauce create an explosion of taste with every bite. Imagine a feast where this dish steals the show, served alongside soft rolls and tangy coleslaw, transforming your dinner table into a vibrant gathering point for family and friends. Crock Pot Pulled Ham is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt centerpiece that carries stories.

I still remember the first time I encountered this recipe at a family barbecue. The aroma wafting from the slow cooker was just as profound as the joyous laughter ringing through the air. Honestly, the ease of this dish is one of its best features. You can pop the ingredients into the crock pot and let it work its magic. It’s ideal for those busy weekday dinners or large gatherings—once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my household. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe that brings so much joy to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepping takes just 20 minutes, and the slow cooker does all the work for you.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoked ham with BBQ sauce and apricot preserves creates a sweet and savory experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a cozy night in; everyone loves pulled ham!
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in sandwiches, on top of a salad, or served alongside your favorite sides.
Budget-Friendly: A large cut of ham can serve up to 12, making it economical for gatherings or meal prepping.

Ingredients You’ll Need

6-8 pound smoked whole bone-in ham: This cut ensures rich flavor and tenderness. Avoid spiral-sliced hams; they won’t hold up as well in a slow cooker.
2 Tablespoons coarse-ground mustard: Adds a tangy kick that enhances the ham’s natural smoky flavors.
2 teaspoons liquid smoke: Intensifies that deep, smoky flavor that’s reminiscent of outdoor grilling.
1 Tablespoon brown sugar rub: I used Kinders for an extra depth of sweetness—feel free to use your favorite rub!
6 fluid ounces Coca Cola: This adds a subtle sweetness and helps tenderize the meat; trust me, it works wonders.
1 cup BBQ sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce that blends perfectly with the meat; choose your favorite brand for the best results.
½ cup apricot preserves: This brings a lovely sweetness that cuts through the savory elements. Substitutions like peach or mango preserves work well too.

How to Make Crock Pot Pulled Ham

Prepare the Ham: Place the 6-8 pound smoked whole bone-in ham into a 6-8 quart crock pot.
Mix and Apply Mustard: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons coarse-ground mustard and 2 teaspoons liquid smoke until well blended. Pour this mixture over the ham, using your hands or a pastry brush to coat it evenly.
Add Brown Sugar Rub: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar rub on all sides of the ham, pressing it gently into the meat to ensure it adheres.
Add Coca Cola: Pour 6 fluid ounces (½ a can) of Coca Cola around the edges of the ham.
Cook the Ham: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours for the best results. If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 5–8 hours is an option. Just remember: keep that lid on!
Prepare the BBQ Mixture: During the last hour of cooking, mix 1 cup BBQ sauce with ½ cup apricot preserves in a bowl, stirring well. Coat the ham with half of this mixture and set the rest aside for later.
Transfer the Ham: Once cooked, carefully transfer the ham to a large serving or baking dish with higher sides to catch any juices.
Reserve Broth: Don’t forget to save the ham broth from the slow cooker—this will enhance the flavor when shredding the meat.
Shred the Ham: Use two forks to shred the ham into bite-sized pieces, enjoying the beautiful aroma as you go.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the reserved BBQ mixture and 1 cup of the ham broth to the shredded ham. Mix well, adding more broth as needed to suit your preferred moisture level. You can always reserve some broth for reheating, too.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pulled ham however you please—on sandwiches, over rice, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover pulled ham, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you have more than you can eat, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, the best method is to warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved broth to maintain moisture. The texture may change slightly, but a little broth will refresh it beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking: Ensure you set the time according to your cooker’s settings; ham can dry out if overcooked.
Let the ham sit: Allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes after cooking; this helps redistribute the juices.
Flavor tweaks: Mix different bbq sauces or even add spices like cayenne or smoked paprika for a kick!
Best when served warm: Don’t let it sit at room temperature for too long.
Make-ahead: Prepare the ham mixture the night before, refrigerate it, and throw it in the crock pot the next day.

Crafting this pulled ham isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating memorable experiences. It’s easy to dive in with family members or friends, enjoying the aroma and excitement as everyone anticipates that first bite. Feel free to play with the ingredients and adapt the flavors to suit your unique tastes. Enjoy celebrating the company of loved ones around the table, creating an atmosphere of warmth, laughter, and of course, incredible food!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe is tailored for ham, you can substitute pork shoulder or beef for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, with pork typically taking about the same duration.

Is the pulled ham too sweet with the added ingredients?

Not at all! The balance in flavors from the savory ham, tangy mustard, and sweet apricot preserves creates a delightful blend. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of apricot preserves or BBQ sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply place the mixture in the crock pot and let it cook throughout the day. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a shortcut for a busy day!

How do I know the ham is done cooking?

Since you’re using a bone-in smoked ham, it’s safe to assume it’s cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F. However, slow cooking for a longer period ensures it pulls apart easily. Use two forks for the perfect shred!