These Slow Cooker Ham and Pineapple Sandwiches are a sweet and savory dream come true, combining tender ham with juicy pineapple for a flavor explosion. The slow cooker works its magic over 3 hours, infusing every bite with a caramelized richness that’s impossible to resist. Perfectly balanced with a hint of tang and a touch of sweetness, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that practically makes itself.
Soft, buttery buns cradle the melt-in-your-mouth ham, while the pineapple adds a refreshing burst of brightness. With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist, guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds diced cooked ham (store-bought or leftover ham works great)
- 20 ounces canned crushed pineapple (drained for less sweetness, if preferred)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your taste)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (substitute with red or yellow for a sweeter flavor)
- ¼ onion, diced (yellow or white onion works best)
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard (substitute with yellow mustard for a milder taste)
- 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion (optional, for extra flavor)
- 8 hamburger buns (or your favorite sandwich rolls)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese (substitute with cheddar or provolone if desired)
How to Make It
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients: Add the diced ham, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, diced bell pepper, diced onion, Dijon mustard, and dried minced onion (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
- Prepare the buns: While the filling cooks, split the hamburger buns and set them aside. Preheat your broiler on low.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Scoop a generous portion of the ham and pineapple mixture onto each bun. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Melt the cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the broiler, let cool slightly, and enjoy your warm, flavorful sandwiches!
Sweet and Savory Sauce Ideas
Enhance your sandwiches with a drizzle of honey mustard or a tangy barbecue glaze. For a tropical twist, mix a tablespoon of pineapple juice from the can with a teaspoon of soy sauce and a pinch of chili flakes for a quick, flavorful sauce. These additions will elevate the sweet and savory balance of your ham and pineapple filling.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Serve your sandwiches with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh tropical salad featuring mango, avocado, and lime dressing. For a heartier meal, pair with a bowl of creamy corn chowder. These sides complement the rich flavors of the sandwich while adding variety to your plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the filling seems dry, add a splash of pineapple juice or water to bring back its moisture. For the buns, toast them lightly before assembling to maintain their texture.
Quick Recipe Variations
Swap out the Swiss cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the filling. For a lighter option, use whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional hamburger buns.
Time-Saving Hacks
To cut down on prep time, use pre-diced ham and pre-chopped bell peppers from the grocery store. You can also prepare the filling the night before and store it in the fridge, so all you need to do is pop it in the slow cooker in the morning. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Slow Cooker Ham and Pineapple Sandwiches Recipe
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 2 pounds diced cooked ham
- 20 ounces canned crushed pineapple
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
- 8 hamburger buns
- 8 Swiss cheese slices
Instructions
- Spray your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add all ingredients in the slow cooker and stir together.
- Cook on low heat for 3 hours or until completely heated through.
- Serve by scooping sandwich filling on a large hamburger bun (or bun of your choice).
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham and put them under the broiler for a minute or until the cheese is melted.