Yes, you can use shaved deli ham in a slow cooker. Because it’s already fully cooked and sliced very thin, the key is to avoid cooking it for many hours, which can make it dry or fall apart.
Here are a few ways to use it:
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) shaved deli ham
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (added at the end)
Instructions
- Add the potatoes, onion, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
- Cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the shaved ham during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
- Add the cheese just before serving and stir until melted.
Ham and Bean Soup
Add the shaved ham during the last 20–30 minutes after the beans and vegetables are cooked. This warms the ham without making it tough.
Creamy Ham Pasta Sauce
Cook the sauce in the slow cooker, then stir in the shaved ham for the last 15–20 minutes. Toss with cooked pasta before serving.
Since deli ham is already cooked, think of it as something to heat through rather than cook. Adding it near the end gives the best texture and flavor.
