Why You’ll Love This Root Beer Ham Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Root Beer Ham recipe for its unique blend of flavors and effortless preparation. The combination of savory ham and sweet root beer creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
I can’t get enough of how the slow cooker infuses the ham with that rich, caramelized taste. Plus, it’s incredibly easy—just let it cook and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home.
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this dish stands out and leaves everyone wanting more. Trust me, you won’t regret trying this delightful recipe!
Ingredients of Root Beer Ham
When it comes to making Root Beer Ham, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, but they pack a punch regarding flavor. You’ll need just two main items to create this delightful dish that brings a sweet and savory twist to the classic ham.
Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it slowly cooks—talk about mouthwatering! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Root Beer Ham:
- 5 lbs cooked ham
- 2 liters root beer
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit. First off, make sure to use a cooked ham—this is essential because it guarantees the meat is tender and flavorful after the slow cooking process.
You can go with a spiral-cut ham if you want those lovely slices to be ready to serve. And about that root beer, well, you might want to grab a brand that you really enjoy drinking. The flavor of the root beer really seeps into the ham, so choosing one that you love will only enhance the taste of the final dish.
Plus, it’s a fun twist that might just surprise your guests. Just make sure you have enough root beer to cover the ham—trust me, you don’t want to skimp on this part.
How to Make Root Beer Ham
Making Root Beer Ham is as easy as pie, and trust me, you don’t need to be a master chef to pull it off. First things first, grab that 5 lbs cooked ham. If you’re like me, you might be standing in the grocery aisle, staring at all those hams, trying to decide which one to bring home. Don’t overthink it—any cooked ham will do, but spiral-cut hams are particularly great since they offer those beautiful, ready-to-serve slices.
Once you’ve made your choice, it’s time to break out the slow cooker—your best friend for this recipe. Place the ham into your 6-quart slow cooker. Now here comes the fun part: the root beer. You’ll need 2 liters of it, and believe me, this is what gives the ham its sweet, savory magic. Pour the root beer over the ham until it’s completely covered.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even sneak a sip of that root beer—quality control, right? Cover the slow cooker, set it to LOW, and let it work its magic for about 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the ham will soak up all that delicious root beer flavor. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen; it’s enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble.
Now, I know patience isn’t my strong suit, but try to resist the urge to peek too often. Every time you lift the lid, you let out all that steamy goodness. After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ham—pro tip: use tongs and maybe some oven mitts because it’ll be hot.
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it up. And just like that, you’ve got yourself a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Who knew making a gourmet meal could be this simple?
Root Beer Ham Substitutions & Variations
While the classic root beer ham recipe is a hit on its own, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your dish even further.
Instead of root beer, try using ginger ale for a spicier kick or cola for a sweeter flavor. You can swap out the ham for pork shoulder or turkey for a lighter option.
Adding spices like cinnamon or cloves can bring a warm depth to the dish. For a tangy twist, brush on some mustard before cooking.
Each variation offers a unique taste, making your root beer ham a delightful surprise every time!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your root beer ham turns out perfectly, I recommend checking the ham’s internal temperature toward the end of the cooking time. Aim for at least 140°F for ideal flavor and texture.
If you want a caramelized glaze, consider broiling the ham for a few minutes after slow cooking—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Don’t forget to reserve some of the root beer cooking liquid; it makes a fantastic sauce!
Finally, allow the ham to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices, ensuring each bite is deliciously moist. Enjoy your meal!