Introduction to Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
Welcome to a culinary adventure that’s as sweet as it is savory! The Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is my go-to dish when I want to impress my family without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture tender ham cubes, caramelized with juicy pineapple chunks, all drizzled in a buttery brown sugar glaze. It’s a delightful balance of flavors that makes it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds, and it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!
Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of hands-on time. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you! Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked ham: I love using leftover ham, cut into cubes. It’s tender and packed with flavor.
- Pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned, these juicy bites add a sweet burst. Just make sure to drain canned pineapple well.
- Brown sugar: This is the star of the glaze! It caramelizes beautifully, giving that sweet, sticky finish.
- Pineapple juice: Use the juice from the canned pineapple or fresh juice. It enhances the pineapple flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness to the glaze. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Dijon mustard: This is optional, but it adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon can warm up the dish, making it feel cozy and inviting.
- Salt & black pepper: Just a pinch of each enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. While the oven warms up, lightly grease your baking dish. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient plays a role: the brown sugar caramelizes, while the pineapple juice adds moisture and flavor. The butter brings richness, and the mustard gives a delightful tang. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ham and Pineapple
Next, add the ham cubes and pineapple chunks to your greased baking dish. Pour the glaze over the top, making sure to coat everything evenly. I like to use my hands to toss it all together gently. This way, every piece gets that delicious glaze, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite!
Step 4: Bake the Dish
Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even caramelization. You’ll know it’s ready when the ham is sticky and golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 5: Broil for Extra Flavor
For that extra touch, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. This step gives the edges a beautiful golden color and a bit of crispiness. Just keep an eye on it, as broiling can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!
Tips for Success
- Use leftover ham for a quick meal; it’s already cooked and full of flavor.
- Don’t skip the broiling step; it adds a delightful texture and enhances the glaze.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- For a spicier kick, a dash of cayenne pepper in the glaze works wonders.
- Make it ahead of time and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner!
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly. You can also use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic touch.
- Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for whisking the glaze. A measuring cup can work in a pinch.
- Whisk: A standard whisk is ideal, but a fork can also get the job done.
- Spatula: Use a spatula for mixing and serving. A wooden spoon is a great alternative.
Variations of Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your ham and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruits like mango or peaches for a tropical twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch that adds depth to the dish.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute brown sugar with a sugar alternative like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
- Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious glaze.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Refreshing Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the dish’s sweetness.
- Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced tea or a fruity mocktail for a festive touch.
FAQs about Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
Can I use fresh ham instead of cooked ham for this recipe?
While this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is best with cooked ham, you can use fresh ham. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the dish. It may require a longer baking time to ensure it’s tender and flavorful.
How do I store leftovers from the Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!
Can I make the Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a great time-saver!
What can I serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or soft dinner rolls. A refreshing salad can also balance the sweetness beautifully. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
Is this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure your ham and any additional ingredients are gluten-free. It’s a delicious option for everyone to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to the table. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to dig in. Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors, making it a dish that sparks smiles and warm conversations. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is a reminder that good food can create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious moments that come with sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Print
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake: A Sweet Savory Delight!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender ham cubes caramelized with sweet pineapple chunks in a buttery brown sugar glaze. A perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is great for holidays, potlucks, or an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 3–4 cups cooked ham, cut into cubes
- 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- Pinch of salt & black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, mustard, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Add ham cubes and pineapple chunks to the baking dish. Pour glaze over the top and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the ham is caramelized and sticky. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra golden edges.
- Serve hot as a main dish with rice, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
