When you think of pulled meat, you probably think of pulled pork or chicken—but have you tried pulled ham? While it may sound unconventional, this pulled ham is baked low and slow, just like pork butt, for irresistibly delicious results. Paired with a simple seasoning mix and pineapple slices the ham will melt in your mouth in the best way possible.
Want more ham recipes in your life? Try our orange glazed ham, slow cooker ham or our classic ham salad.
Why Our Recipe
- A unique spin on your classic ham that’s cooked low and slow to deliver mouth-watering results.
- The combination of stone-ground mustard, brown sugar, and pineapple adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang to the meat.
- Easy to make with just 4 ingredients!
Pulled ham is about to become one of your new favorite recipes. It’s easy to make and offers a savory twist on your favorite pork dish. Enjoy it on buns and sandwiches, over potatoes, or even on its own with delicious side dishes! Pulled ham is a truly versatile meal idea you’ve got to try!
Ingredient Notes
- Ham: Use a bone-in shank, butt or full ham for best results.
- Stone Ground Mustard: Some grocery stores carry this specific mustard near the deli section.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar works best.
- Pineapple Slices: You can use fresh pineapple slices but for convenience, use canned pineapple slices and pineapple juice.
Ham Options
Not all ham is created equal, especially for this recipe. You want to opt for the butt or shank portions, bone-in and unsliced. Be aware that this recipe will not work with a spiral-sliced ham! Sliced varieties won’t shred as nicely. If you do use a shank, make sure to trim off any of the hard skin. We have used boneless varieties when in a crunch, and it also works! You should also keep in mind that larger pieces of meat will take more time to bake.
Additional Flavor Options
While we think you’ll enjoy this pulled ham recipe just the way it is, you can add additional flavors to the dish to suite your taste. Chili flakes, orange zest, maple syrup, and green chiles are all great options.
Make sure that when adding in more flavorings you stay away from anything salty. The ham is already a brined piece of meat, so you don’t want to add any more salt into the mix. Overly salted meat is one thing you want to avoid!
Cooking Options
You can cook this savory pulled ham in several different ways including baking in the oven or using your slow cooker. Use a meat thermometer to determine the internal temperature. It should read between 200-205 degrees F. You’ll also be able to tell that it’s ready when your shredded ham becomes, well, shreddable!
Oven: Place the pan covered tightly with aluminum foil in the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 hours depending on the size of the ham you choose.
Slow Cooker: Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Check to ensure your ham is staying moist throughout the cooking process.
Smoker: If you’re interested in using a smoker to cook your dish, our dear friend Susie at Hey Grill Hey has you covered with the smoked version of Chef Cayt’s pulled ham!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep for about 3-4 days.
Freeze leftovers in the freezer inside an airtight, freezer-safe container. Let your pulled ham thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the microwave or in the oven.
Reheat single portions in the microwave on high in 30-second increments until it’s heated through. You can also reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F until it’s warmed through.