Name: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 lb cooked ham (sliced or cubed); 1 can pineapple chunks or rings with juice; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

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There’s something truly heartwarming about the combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham baking together in a delicious glaze. This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake captures those comforting flavors perfectly, making it a go-to dish for festive holidays or cozy family dinners. The caramelized brown sugar melds with the tangy pineapple juice to create a luscious, sticky coating that enhances the naturally smoky taste of the ham.

Whether you’re gathering around the table for a special occasion or simply want to add a little sweetness to your dinner routine, this dish delivers bold flavors and easy preparation. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can achieve a beautiful presentation and mouthwatering aroma that everyone will appreciate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with caramelized pineapple and brown sugar glaze.
Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for any home cook.
Versatile dish ideal for holidays, family dinners, or special occasions.

Ingredients

Cooked Ham (900 g–1 kg / ≈2 lb): Choose pre-cooked ham, sliced or cubed, to provide a hearty and flavorful base for this dish.
Pineapple Chunks or Rings (1 can, with juice): Adds juicy sweetness and acidity that caramelizes beautifully when baked.
Brown Sugar (½ cup): Creates a rich caramelized glaze, balancing the savory ham with deep sweetness.
Dijon or Yellow Mustard (2 tablespoons): Gives a gentle tang and slight spice that cuts through the sweetness.
Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds depth and umami to the glaze enhancing overall flavor complexity.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven to Perfection: Set your oven to 180 °C (350 °F) to ensure steady, even heat for baking. This temperature helps the glaze caramelize into a shiny, sticky finish without drying out the ham.
Arrange Ham and Pineapple: Place the sliced or cubed cooked ham evenly in a baking dish to form a solid layer. Top it with pineapple chunks or rings; the fruit will soften and release juices that complement the glaze.
Prepare the Glaze Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce (if using), and the pineapple juice from the can. This blend creates a tangy-sweet coating that will baste the ham during baking.
Glaze the Ham Thoroughly: Pour the glaze evenly over the ham and pineapple layers, ensuring every piece gets coated. The sugar content helps develop a glossy, caramelized crust as it bakes.
Cover and Bake for Tenderness: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent the ham from drying. Bake for 30 minutes which allows flavors to meld and pineapple juices to infuse the ham.
Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This final step caramelizes the glaze and slightly crisps the top for that irresistible sticky texture.

You Must Know

Use a baking dish with raised edges to catch juices and prevent spills during baking.
If your ham is very salty, consider rinsing slices before baking to balance flavors.
This dish pairs exceptionally well with simple sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the glaze’s texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this ham bake alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the luscious glaze. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad provide a perfect balance for a complete meal.

Professional Tips

Using cooked ham reduces preparation time while letting the glaze shine as the main flavor component.
For more caramelization, brush additional glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Opt for brown sugar with a higher molasses content for a deeper flavor in your glaze.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?: Yes, fresh pineapple works well but may release less juice. Add a bit of water or pineapple juice to the glaze to compensate.
Is low-sodium ham suitable for this recipe?: Absolutely. Low-sodium ham is a great choice if you want to control the salt level while maintaining great flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?: You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just bring to room temperature before putting it in the oven for best results.
What should I serve with pineapple ham bake?: Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables complement the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
Can I double this recipe for larger gatherings?: Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend baking time slightly. Cover with foil to keep it moist.