3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham Recipe

Holidays at our house are always a joyous, slightly chaotic affair. Between the tree decorating, present wrapping, and the sheer excitement buzzing in the air, the last thing I want to be stressed about is the main course. For years, the holiday ham was a source of minor dread – the thawing, the glazing, the oven watching… it felt like a day-long commitment. That was until I stumbled upon what I can only describe as a culinary game-changer: the 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham.

Honestly, when I first saw this recipe, I was skeptical. Three ingredients? Could something so simple actually deliver that show-stopping holiday centerpiece we all crave? My curiosity, and the promise of less holiday kitchen stress, won me over. And let me tell you, from the very first bite, I was hooked. This isn’t just an easy recipe; it’s a recipe that produces a ham so incredibly moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious, it rivals anything I’ve ever spent hours slaving over.

The magic, as it turns out, lies in the combination of a good quality spiral-cut ham, tangy cranberry sauce, and sweet crushed pineapple, all cooked to tender perfection in a pressure cooker. The pressure cooker infuses the ham with the fruity sweetness, creating a glaze-like coating that’s both sticky and savory. The result? A ham that’s deeply flavorful, juicy beyond belief, and practically falls apart as you carve it.

My family? They absolutely adore it. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns up his nose at anything “fruity” on his meat, devours this ham with gusto. It’s become a non-negotiable part of our holiday feasts, requested year after year. And the best part for me? I can actually enjoy the holiday festivities instead of being chained to the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s stress-free holiday entertaining at its finest, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes are truly the best. So, ditch the complicated glazes and lengthy oven times, and let’s dive into this incredibly easy and utterly delicious recipe that will become your new holiday tradition.

Ingredients: The Trio of Flavor That Makes Magic

The beauty of this recipe truly lies in its simplicity. Just three ingredients are all you need to create a ham that’s bursting with flavor and tenderness. Let’s break down each component and understand why they work so harmoniously together:

• 1 8-10 pound spiral cut ham, hickory smoked, bone-in: The star of the show, the ham itself, plays a crucial role in the final outcome. Choosing the right type of ham is the first step to success.
  • Spiral Cut: Opting for a spiral cut ham is highly recommended for this recipe. The pre-sliced nature of spiral cut hams allows the cranberry-pineapple mixture to penetrate deep within the meat, infusing every slice with flavor and moisture. This also ensures even cooking and makes carving a breeze when it’s time to serve. Trying to achieve the same flavor penetration with a solid ham would be significantly more challenging and less effective.
  • Hickory Smoked: The hickory smoked flavor adds a wonderful depth and complexity to the ham. Hickory smoke is known for its bold, slightly bacon-like flavor, which complements the sweetness of the cranberry and pineapple beautifully. While other smoked varieties like applewood or maple smoked ham could also work, hickory smoked provides a classic ham flavor that’s hard to beat. Avoid overly strong or intensely flavored smokes that might overpower the other ingredients.
  • Bone-in: Choosing a bone-in ham offers several advantages. The bone contributes to the overall flavor of the ham as it cooks, adding richness and depth. Bone-in hams also tend to be more moist and flavorful than boneless hams. While a boneless spiral cut ham could technically be used, bone-in is generally preferred for superior flavor and texture. Plus, after you’ve enjoyed your delicious ham, you can use the ham bone to make a flavorful soup or stock!
  • Size Matters: An 8-10 pound ham is ideal for most standard-sized pressure cookers. If you have a smaller pressure cooker, you might need to opt for a smaller ham, or even consider cutting a larger ham to fit. Conversely, if you’re feeding a very large crowd, you could potentially use two smaller hams, cooking them sequentially in the pressure cooker, or using a larger pressure cooker if available.
• 1 14 ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce is not just a Thanksgiving side dish; it’s a surprisingly versatile ingredient that adds a beautiful tartness and sweetness to savory dishes.
  • Whole Berry vs. Jellied: For this recipe, whole berry cranberry sauce is recommended over jellied cranberry sauce. The whole berries provide a lovely texture and visual appeal to the finished ham. The berries also tend to hold their shape better during pressure cooking, creating little bursts of cranberry flavor throughout the ham. Jellied cranberry sauce, while still flavorful, might become too liquid and less visually appealing after cooking.
  • Flavor Profile: The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the ham, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce complements the smoky ham beautifully, creating a delightful sweet and savory combination. Don’t underestimate the power of this simple ingredient to elevate the ham to a whole new level.
  • Brands and Variations: Any standard 14-ounce can of whole berry cranberry sauce will work perfectly. You can use store-brand or name-brand, depending on your preference. If you prefer a slightly less sweet cranberry sauce, look for varieties with reduced sugar or those made with natural sweeteners. However, for this recipe, the standard sweetness of regular cranberry sauce is generally ideal.
• 1 20 ounce can crushed pineapple, do not drain: Crushed pineapple adds another layer of sweetness and a tropical twist to the ham. The pineapple also contains enzymes that help tenderize the ham, contributing to its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Crushed vs. Chunks or Tidbits: Crushed pineapple is preferred over pineapple chunks or tidbits for this recipe. The smaller pieces of crushed pineapple distribute more evenly throughout the ham and create a more consistent flavor. Chunks or tidbits might be too large and not integrate as seamlessly into the sauce and ham.
  • Undrained Pineapple Juice: Liquid Gold: It’s crucial to use the pineapple undrained. The pineapple juice not only adds to the overall flavor but also provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking. Without the pineapple juice, there might not be enough liquid in the pressure cooker, potentially leading to a “burn” error. The juice also contributes to the glaze-like consistency of the sauce as it cooks down and thickens.
  • Fresh Pineapple (Not Recommended): While you might be tempted to use fresh pineapple, canned crushed pineapple is actually recommended for this recipe. Canned pineapple is already softened and cooked, which helps it break down and create a smoother sauce during pressure cooking. Fresh pineapple might not soften as much and could result in a slightly different texture. Additionally, canned pineapple is conveniently available year-round, making this recipe easy to prepare anytime.

These three ingredients, when combined and pressure cooked, create a symphony of flavors that is far greater than the sum of its parts. The simplicity is deceptive; the taste is undeniably impressive.

Instructions: Effortless Steps to Ham Perfection

Preparing this 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is incredibly straightforward. It’s so easy, in fact, that even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your ham turns out perfectly every time:

1. Prepare the Ham: Start by taking your 8-10 pound spiral cut ham out of its packaging. There’s no need to rinse the ham. Simply place it directly into your pressure cooker pot. Make sure your pressure cooker is large enough to comfortably accommodate the ham. If your ham is too large, you might need to trim it slightly to fit, or consider using a larger pressure cooker or slow cooker instead.
2. Add the Sauces: Now comes the easiest part – simply dump the 14-ounce can of whole berry cranberry sauce and the 20-ounce can of undrained crushed pineapple directly on top of the ham in the pressure cooker pot. Don’t worry about layering or being precise at this stage; we’ll distribute the sauces in the next step.
3. Massage the Flavor In: This is where your freshly washed fingers come into play! Gently use your hands to tuck some of the cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple in between the slices of the spiral cut ham. This step is crucial for ensuring that the flavors penetrate deep into the ham and that every slice is infused with the sweet and tangy sauce. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a little messy – it’s all part of the fun (and deliciousness!). Aim to distribute the fruit mixture as evenly as possible, working it into the crevices of the ham.
4. Pressure Cook to Perfection: Seal your pressure cooker lid according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring it’s properly locked and the pressure valve is in the sealing position. Select the “Meat” setting on your pressure cooker. If your pressure cooker doesn’t have a “Meat” setting, manually set the cooking time for 20 minutes at high pressure. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your pressure cooker model and the size and density of your ham. For an 8-10 pound ham, 20 minutes is generally sufficient.
5. Release the Pressure: Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure:
   • Quick Release: For a faster cooking process, you can perform a quick pressure release. Carefully and according to your pressure cooker’s instructions, release the pressure valve to vent steam rapidly. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping – use a kitchen towel or oven mitt to protect your hand and keep your face and body away from the steam vent. Quick release helps to stop the cooking process quickly and is often preferred for meats to prevent overcooking.
   • Natural Release: Alternatively, you can allow the pressure to release naturally. This means simply letting the pressure cooker sit undisturbed until the pressure indicator pin drops on its own. Natural release takes longer than quick release, typically around 10-20 minutes, but it can result in slightly more tender meat. For this ham recipe, either quick or natural release will work well. Personal preference and time constraints can dictate your choice.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pressure is fully released and the pressure indicator pin has dropped, carefully open the pressure cooker lid. Be mindful of any remaining steam. Using a couple of large spoons or spatulas, carefully remove the ham from the pressure cooker pot and transfer it to a serving platter. The ham will be very tender and may want to fall apart, so handle it gently. You can also use a slotted spoon to scoop out the cooked pineapple and cranberry mixture from the pot and spoon it over the ham on the platter. This fruit mixture acts as a delicious and flavorful sauce. Slice and serve immediately. The ham is best served hot, and the cranberry-pineapple sauce adds a beautiful finishing touch.

That’s it! In just a few simple steps and under 40 minutes (including prep and cook time), you’ve created a stunning and incredibly delicious 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham. It’s a truly effortless way to impress your guests and enjoy a stress-free holiday meal.

Nutrition Facts: A Deliciously Indulgent Treat (Estimated)

It’s important to remember that nutritional information for homemade recipes can only be estimated and will vary based on specific ingredient brands, ham size, and serving sizes. However, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for our 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham to give you a general idea:

• Servings: An 8-10 pound ham will typically yield approximately 20-24 servings, depending on serving size. For nutritional estimation purposes, we’ll assume 22 servings.
• Calories per Serving (Estimated): Based on average nutritional values for the ingredients, a serving of this 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is estimated to contain approximately 350-450 calories. This is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific type of ham and cranberry sauce used.
  • Protein: Ham is a good source of protein. A serving likely contains around 30-40 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle building and repair, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
  • Fat: The fat content will depend on the type of ham used. Spiral cut hams can vary in fat content. A serving likely contains around 15-25 grams of fat, with a portion of that being saturated fat.
  • Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates primarily come from the cranberry sauce and pineapple. A serving likely contains around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from sugars in the fruit sauces.
  • Sodium: Ham is naturally high in sodium, and canned cranberry sauce and pineapple also contribute to the sodium content. A serving likely contains a significant amount of sodium, possibly 700-1000mg or more. If you are watching your sodium intake, be mindful of this.

Important Notes:

• These are estimates only. For more precise nutritional information, you would need to use specific nutritional data for the exact brands and types of ingredients you use and calculate it based on the actual weight of the ham and sauces consumed per serving.
• Sugar Content: Be aware that both cranberry sauce and pineapple are sources of sugar. While this contributes to the delicious flavor of the ham, it also adds to the overall sugar content of the dish. If you are concerned about sugar intake, you might consider using reduced-sugar cranberry sauce, although this may slightly alter the flavor profile.
• Serving Size: Be mindful of your serving sizes. A typical serving of ham is around 3-4 ounces (85-113 grams). Larger servings will naturally increase the calorie, fat, carbohydrate, and sodium content.

This 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is undoubtedly a delicious and relatively easy way to enjoy a holiday centerpiece. While it’s not a low-calorie or low-sodium dish, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially during special occasions. Pair it with lighter side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a more balanced meal.

Preparation Time: Speedy from Start to Finish

One of the biggest appeals of this recipe is its incredibly short preparation time. When you’re juggling holiday preparations or simply want a quick and easy meal, this recipe shines. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment:

• Prep Time: 3 Minutes: Yes, you read that right – just 3 minutes of actual hands-on preparation! This is truly where this recipe stands out. The prep work is minimal: unwrapping the ham, opening two cans, and tucking the sauces in. It’s almost as simple as opening a package and putting it in the pressure cooker. This minimal prep time is a lifesaver during busy holidays or weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Cook Time: 20 Minutes: The pressure cooking time itself is a mere 20 minutes. Compared to traditional oven-roasting methods for ham, which can take hours, this is a remarkably quick cooking time. Pressure cooking significantly reduces the cooking time while still ensuring the ham is cooked through and incredibly tender.
• Total Time: 38 Minutes (Including Pressure Release): Including the time for the pressure cooker to come up to pressure and the time for pressure release (whether quick or natural), the total time from start to finish is approximately 38 minutes. This is an incredibly efficient timeframe for preparing a holiday-worthy centerpiece. You can have a delicious and impressive ham on the table in under 40 minutes, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal and your company.

Time Savings Compared to Traditional Methods:

Traditional oven-roasting a ham can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the size of the ham and the oven temperature. This 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham recipe shaves off hours of cooking time, making it a significantly faster and more convenient option. The time savings are especially valuable during busy holidays when oven space might be limited and you have other dishes to prepare.

Perfect for Busy Schedules:

The short preparation and cooking time of this recipe make it ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or any occasion where you want a delicious and impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for working parents, busy professionals, or anyone who simply appreciates quick and easy recipes that deliver big flavor.

How to Serve: Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

This 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion from casual family dinners to elegant holiday feasts. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and delicious meal:

• Classic Holiday Dinner:
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a quintessential side dish for ham. They provide a comforting and classic pairing that everyone loves.
  • Green Bean Casserole: Another holiday staple, green bean casserole adds a creamy and savory element to the meal.
  • Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of sweet potato casserole complements the savory ham and cranberry-pineapple sauce beautifully.
  • Dinner Rolls: Warm, soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious ham juices and sauces.
• Lighter and Fresher Options:
  • Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus provides a fresh and healthy counterpoint to the richness of the ham.
  • Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and acidity to balance the meal.
  • Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad complements the fruity notes in the ham sauce and provides a light and refreshing side.
  • Scalloped Potatoes: A slightly lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes offer a creamy and comforting side without being too heavy.
• Potluck or Buffet Style:
  • Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with ham.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the ham.
  • Potato Salad: Classic potato salad is a great addition to a buffet and complements ham perfectly.
  • Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delicious and slightly unexpected side that works well with the sweet and savory flavors of the ham.
• Garnishing Ideas:
  • Fresh Cranberries: Scatter a few fresh cranberries around the platter for a beautiful and festive garnish.
  • Pineapple Wedges: Arrange some fresh pineapple wedges around the ham for a visual appeal and to reinforce the pineapple flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of rosemary or thyme can add a touch of elegance and aroma to the presentation.
  • Orange Slices: Thin slices of orange can complement the fruity flavors and add a pop of color.
• Serving Temperature:
  • This ham is best served hot right out of the pressure cooker. However, it can also be served warm or even at room temperature, although the texture is best when it’s warm.
  • If you are not serving it immediately, keep the ham warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) or in a warming drawer to maintain its optimal temperature and texture.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is sure to be the star of your meal. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a fantastic option for any gathering, big or small.

Additional Tips for Ham Success: Elevating Your 3-Ingredient Masterpiece

While this recipe is incredibly simple and forgiving, here are five additional tips to help you achieve ham perfection every time and take your 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham to the next level:

1. Ham Selection is Key: Start with a good quality spiral cut, bone-in, hickory smoked ham. The quality of the ham will significantly impact the final flavor. Look for hams that are plump, have good marbling (the streaks of fat within the meat), and are from reputable brands. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive ham, choosing a decent quality ham will make a noticeable difference in taste and texture. Consider exploring different brands and types of spiral cut hams to find your personal favorite.
2. Don’t Skip Tucking the Sauce: Resist the temptation to simply dump the cranberry sauce and pineapple on top and skip the step of tucking it between the slices. This step is crucial for infusing the ham with flavor throughout. Taking a few extra moments to gently work the sauce into the spiral cuts ensures that every slice of ham is coated in the delicious cranberry-pineapple mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and evenly seasoned final product.
3. Experiment with Spices (Subtly): While the recipe is designed for simplicity, you can subtly enhance the flavor profile with a few carefully chosen spices. A pinch of ground cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg added to the cranberry-pineapple mixture can add a warm, holiday-inspired touch without compromising the 3-ingredient simplicity. Start with a very small amount – just a quarter to half a teaspoon of any spice – and taste as you go. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not overpower, the main flavors.
4. Leftover Magic: Embrace Ham Versatility: Leftover ham from this recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t let any of it go to waste! Shredded or diced leftover ham is fantastic in:
   • Ham and Bean Soup: Use the ham bone (if you have one) and leftover ham to make a hearty and flavorful ham and bean soup.
   • Ham and Cheese Sandwiches: Classic and always satisfying.
   • Ham Quiche or Frittata: Add diced ham to quiches or frittatas for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch.
   • Ham Fried Rice: A quick and easy meal using leftover rice and vegetables.
   • Ham Hash: Combine diced ham with potatoes, onions, and peppers for a delicious breakfast hash.
   • Ham and Scalloped Potatoes (using leftover ham): Create a comforting casserole with leftover ham and scalloped potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
5. Slow Cooker Option for Hands-Off Cooking: While the pressure cooker is incredibly fast, this recipe can also be easily adapted for the slow cooker for a truly hands-off cooking experience. To cook in a slow cooker:
   • Place the ham in the slow cooker.
   • Pour the cranberry sauce and undrained pineapple over the ham.
   • Tuck the sauce between the slices as you would for the pressure cooker method.
   • Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through.
   • The slow cooker method will result in a slightly different texture – the ham will be even more fall-apart tender – but equally delicious. This is a great option if you want to start the ham in the morning and have it ready for dinner without actively cooking it.

By incorporating these tips, you can further refine your 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham and ensure it’s a resounding success every time you make it.

FAQ: Your 3-Ingredient Ham Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about the ingredients in this 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham recipe to help you understand substitutions, variations, and ensure you have all the information you need:

Q1: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

A: While canned cranberry sauce is recommended for its convenience and consistent sweetness and texture, you can use fresh cranberries, but it will require a bit more effort and might slightly alter the flavor profile. If using fresh cranberries, you’ll need to make your own cranberry sauce. You can find many recipes online for homemade cranberry sauce. Be sure to include sugar in your homemade sauce to achieve a similar level of sweetness to canned sauce. You’ll also want to ensure your homemade sauce has a similar consistency to canned sauce – not too watery. Canned cranberry sauce is used in this recipe for its ease and the specific flavor it imparts, but homemade is certainly an option if you prefer a fresher, less processed approach.

Q2: Can I use pineapple chunks or tidbits instead of crushed pineapple?

A: Crushed pineapple is recommended for this recipe because it distributes more evenly and creates a smoother sauce. However, if you only have pineapple chunks or tidbits on hand, you can certainly use them. To make them more suitable, you can roughly chop pineapple chunks into smaller pieces before adding them to the pressure cooker. Pineapple tidbits may be small enough to use as is. Just be aware that using larger pieces of pineapple might result in a slightly chunkier sauce and less even distribution of pineapple flavor throughout the ham compared to using crushed pineapple.

Q3: Can I use a different type of ham, like a boneless ham or a picnic ham?

A: This recipe is specifically designed for a spiral cut, bone-in ham for optimal flavor and texture. While you could technically use a boneless spiral cut ham, bone-in is preferred for the richer flavor the bone imparts. Picnic ham (also known as pork shoulder or Boston butt) is a different cut of meat and is not recommended for this recipe. Picnic ham is typically tougher and requires longer cooking times and different cooking methods. For the best results and flavor, stick with a bone-in or boneless spiral cut ham.

Q4: Can I use sugar-free or reduced-sugar cranberry sauce to make it healthier?

A: Yes, you can use sugar-free or reduced-sugar cranberry sauce if you are looking to reduce the sugar content of the recipe. This will certainly make the dish healthier in terms of sugar. However, be aware that using a less sweet cranberry sauce will alter the overall flavor profile of the ham. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce is part of what creates the glaze-like coating and balances the savory ham. Using a sugar-free version might result in a more tart and less sweet ham. You might consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup (in moderation) to the cranberry sauce if you find it too tart with a sugar-free version, but this would technically add another ingredient.

Q5: Can I skip the pineapple or cranberry sauce altogether?

A: While you could technically cook a ham in a pressure cooker with just water or broth, skipping the cranberry sauce and pineapple would completely change the recipe and you would lose the signature sweet and tangy flavor profile that makes this 3-Ingredient Ham so special. The cranberry sauce and pineapple are not just for flavor; they also contribute to the moisture and tenderness of the ham during pressure cooking. Without them, you would essentially just be cooking a plain ham in a pressure cooker. If you want a simple pressure cooker ham without the fruity glaze, you would be better off searching for a recipe specifically designed for that purpose. The magic of this recipe lies in the unique combination of these three ingredients.

Hopefully, these FAQs have addressed any lingering questions you might have about the ingredients. This 3-Ingredient Pressure Cooker Ham is all about simplicity and deliciousness, and understanding the role of each ingredient helps you appreciate just how easy and impactful this recipe truly is. Enjoy!

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