Description
This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Cubes of ham and juicy pineapple chunks are coated in a luscious brown sugar glaze and baked to perfection. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner, potluck gathering, or holiday celebration. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe when you need a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
→ Main Players
- 3 cups cooked ham, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve ¼ cup of the juice)
→ Sweet and Tangy Glaze
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ¼ cup reserved pineapple juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for added warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the ham bake from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, prepare the glaze. Whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, reserved pineapple juice, and ground cloves (if using). Continue whisking until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
Step 3: In the prepared baking dish, combine the diced ham and pineapple chunks.
Step 4: Pour the glaze evenly over the ham and pineapple mixture. Gently stir to ensure that all the ham and pineapple pieces are well coated with the glaze.
Step 5: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The glaze should be bubbly, slightly thickened, and caramelized around the edges. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Remove the ham bake from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the savory ham and juicy pineapple, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
- Versatile: Suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to festive holiday feasts.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is always a hit with both kids and adults.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot over a bed of white or brown rice to soak up the delicious glaze.
- Pair it with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a complete meal.
- Offer it with a side of dinner rolls or biscuits for a comforting and satisfying option.
- Make it a part of your holiday spread alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
- Consider serving with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Tips:
- Ham Selection: Use a good-quality cooked ham for the best flavor. Leftover holiday ham works perfectly in this recipe.
- Pineapple Variation: Fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned. Just be sure to peel, core, and dice it into similar-sized chunks.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze seems too thick, add a splash more pineapple juice to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it in a saucepan on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken it before pouring over the ham and pineapple.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Approximate values per serving; will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers both flavor and simplicity. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a valuable addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of mustard?
A: Yes, you can substitute yellow mustard for Dijon mustard if you prefer a milder flavor. However, Dijon mustard adds a bit more depth and complexity to the glaze.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or even chunks of sweet potato would be delicious additions. Add them along with the ham and pineapple.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is heated through and the glaze has thickened.
Q4: Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
A: Honey can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, but it will result in a slightly different flavor profile. Honey is sweeter than brown sugar, so you might want to reduce the amount slightly. The glaze will also be a bit stickier.
Q5: What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
A: If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use apple juice or even a bit of water mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice as a substitute in the glaze. However, the pineapple juice contributes to the overall pineapple flavor, so try to use it if possible.
