If you are searching for a delightful, soul-satisfying meal that blends sweet and savory in perfect harmony, then the Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish pairs tender ham steaks with the tropical brightness of pineapple slices, all laced with a luscious brown sugar and Dijon mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s an easy recipe to prepare yet impressively flavorful, making it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the richness of butter to the tangy punch of Dijon mustard, every component is simple but essential, ensuring a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.
- Boneless ham steaks (2, about 1.5 to 1.75 pounds total weight): The star protein, tender and flavorful, forming the hearty base for this dish.
- 8-ounce can pineapple slices in 100% pineapple juice: Adds natural sweetness and a tropical burst that complements the savory ham.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, divided): Enhances richness and helps develop that gorgeous caramelized crust on the ham.
- Light brown sugar (¼ cup, packed): Brings a warm, molasses-like sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle tang and depth to the glaze, cutting through the sweetness.
- Allspice (â…› teaspoon): Offers a subtle warmth and spice that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, placing the rack in the center position. Preheating ensures your ham steaks will cook evenly and that the glaze will bubble up beautifully when broiled later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham and Pineapple
Cut each ham steak in half to create manageable portions and set aside. Drain the pineapple slices, but don’t throw away that precious pineapple juice—you’ll need it for the glaze. Reserving the juice is one of those simple tricks that infuses extra pineapple flavor into your glaze, making all the difference.
Step 3: Brown the Ham Steaks
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add two ham steak halves and cook for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step adds beautiful caramelization and depth. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning. Once browned, transfer the ham steaks to a large baking dish and repeat with the remaining butter and ham steaks.
Step 4: Create the Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze
With the skillet off the heat, stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, allspice, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice to the browned butter. Place the skillet back on low heat and stir constantly until the sugar melts and forms a smooth glaze—this should take about a minute. Removing the skillet from heat and letting the glaze rest ensures it thickens to a luscious, pourable consistency perfect for coating the ham.
Step 5: Assemble with Pineapple and Glaze
Top each ham steak half with a pineapple slice, then generously drizzle the brown sugar Dijon glaze over the entire piece. Use the back of a spoon to spread the glaze evenly, making sure to get some on the pineapple and inside the ring for maximum flavor. If the glaze is too thick to drizzle, thin it gently by adding a bit of the reserved pineapple juice. This step is where the magic happens—every bite will be coated in that irresistible sticky-sweet tang.
Step 6: Bake and Broil to Perfection
Place the baking dish with the glazed ham steaks into your preheated oven and cook for 10 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil and keep a close eye on the dish as the glaze bubbles and caramelizes for about 2 to 3 minutes. Once done, allow the ham steaks to rest in the baking pan for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the juices settle and the glaze set slightly, for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and a mild freshness to balance the rich glaze. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans or slivered almonds on top—these textures contrast wonderfully with the tender ham and juicy pineapple.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf absorb the extra glaze perfectly. For a lighter option, try roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans tossed with a little lemon zest to brighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual yet stunning presentation, serve the ham steaks on a wooden board garnished with pineapple slices and fresh herb sprigs. You can also layer the ham and pineapple on skewers to create delicious kabobs, perfect for backyard grilling or a festive party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover ham steaks and pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the glaze along with them so the flavors stay moist and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, wrap the glazed ham steaks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe is in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the glaze sticky and the ham tender.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple slices work wonderfully and add extra juiciness. Just be sure to reserve some fresh pineapple juice or a splash of pineapple nectar to make the glaze.
Is it necessary to broil the ham at the end?
Broiling caramelizes the glaze and gives it that irresistible bubbly finish. If you skip this step, the dish will still be tasty but missing that signature glossy crust.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
You can make the glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it. Warm it gently before pouring over the ham steaks for best results.
What other meats can I try this glaze with?
This sweet and tangy glaze pairs wonderfully with pork chops, chicken breasts, or even grilled sausages for a different twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All of the ingredients used in the Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside. It is effortless to make yet feels special enough to bring out for family dinners or holiday celebrations. I promise once you try this delightful combo of sweet, tangy, and savory, it will become a treasured staple in your recipe collection. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of this flavorful, succulent meal!
Print
Pineapple Ham Steaks with Brown Sugar Dijon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy Pineapple Ham Steaks recipe featuring glazed ham steaks topped with juicy pineapple slices, baked and broiled to perfection with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients
Ham and Pineapple
- 2 boneless ham steaks (approximately 1.5 to 1.75 pounds total weight)
- 8 ounce can pineapple slices in 100% pineapple juice
Glaze
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- â…› teaspoon allspice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and position the oven rack in the center. This ensures even cooking and browning of your ham steaks.
- Prepare Ham and Pineapple: Cut each ham steak in half. Drain the pineapple slices, but be sure to reserve the juice for making the glaze later.
- Brown the Ham: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add two halved ham steaks and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. If the butter starts to brown too much, lower the heat to prevent burning. Transfer the browned ham to a large baking dish and repeat this process with the remaining butter and ham pieces.
- Make the Glaze: Remove the skillet from heat. To the browned butter still in the skillet, add the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, allspice, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice. Place the skillet back on low heat and stir constantly for about a minute until the brown sugar melts fully and the glaze thickens slightly but remains pourable. Remove from heat and let it rest briefly.
- Assemble for Baking: Place one pineapple slice on top of each ham steak half. Drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the ham and pineapple, smoothing it with the back of a spoon. If the glaze becomes too thick, thin it out by adding a bit more of the reserved pineapple juice. Try to ensure most of the glaze coats the ham steaks, not the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake and Broil: Transfer the baking dish to the oven and cook for 10 minutes at 400 degrees F. Then switch the oven setting to broil and cook the ham steaks for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes slightly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ham steaks from the oven and allow them to rest in the baking pan for 5 to 10 minutes to let the juices settle before serving. Enjoy your perfectly glazed pineapple ham steaks!
Notes
- Reserve pineapple juice carefully to adjust glaze consistency.
- Watch the butter when browning ham to avoid burning the glaze base.
- Resting the ham after baking improves juiciness and flavor integration.
- For a thicker glaze, reduce pineapple juice or cook slightly longer on low heat.
- Use an oven-safe skillet if you want to bake and broil directly without transferring.
