Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

There are few things that fill the kitchen with nostalgia and sweet warmth quite like brown sugar pineapple ham bubbling away in the oven. This easy recipe became my go-to after our first Easter at home when I had leftover ham and a can of pineapple hanging around, and now it’s a frequent favorite for its irresistible mix of savory and sweetness.

The first time I made this I was shocked by how much my kids loved pineapple with ham They told me it tasted like a holiday dinner and now it is always requested when I grab a ham at the store

Ingredients

• Cooked ham diced: adds the heartiness and classic savory base find a ham with good marbling for best flavor
• Pineapple chunks: provide juicy bursts of sweetness fresh pineapple works but good canned saves time and offers just the right tenderness
• Brown sugar: deepens the caramelized sweet crust choose dark for richer molasses notes or light for milder sweetness
• Dijon or yellow mustard: delivers the tangy contrast if you have French Dijon use it for more complex flavor but yellow is perfect too
• Soy sauce: gives an extra umami touch for well rounded glaze opt for low sodium to keep salt in check
• Reserved pineapple juice: brings all the ingredients together and infuses extra tropical flavor use the juice from your can for best result
• Ground cloves: optional but worth it for a hint of warming spice freshly ground gives a more aromatic lift
• Salt and pepper: round out all the flavors adjust to your personal preference

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375&F and lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish using cooking spray or a soft pat of butter This will prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup after serving

Make the Glaze:

In a medium sized bowl whisk together brown sugar mustard soy sauce pineapple juice and ground cloves if you want that spicy note Whisk until you have a smooth glossy mixture This sweet and tangy glaze is what makes the dish unforgettable

Combine Ham and Pineapple:

Scatter the diced ham and pineapple chunks evenly in your prepared baking dish Pour the glaze over the ham and pineapple making sure everything is covered Gently stir with a spoon or spatula so every piece is lacquered in that lovely syrup

Bake until Golden:

Place the dish uncovered in the center of your oven Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes Keep an eye on the edges You want the ham heated through and edges starting to caramelize and turn golden brown That is when all those sugars work their magic

Serve and Enjoy:

Spoon the bubbling brown sugar pineapple ham over freshly cooked rice roasted potatoes or even inside slider rolls for a fun twist Bright roasted veggies or a leafy salad also pair beautifully with the sweet glaze

Pineapple is the standout ingredient for me I remember cutting open the can with my daughter for the first time and she insisted on sneaking a chunk before I could mix the dish Now she handles the pineapple while I whisk the glaze and it is truly our little kitchen tradition

Storage Tips

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They are best eaten within three days If you want to freeze portion out the ham and glaze into freezer safe containers Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture A quick zap in the microwave or a covered warm up in the oven both work wonders

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of Dijon mustard yellow mustard works just fine and gives a milder flavor For an extra punch substitute maple syrup for part of the brown sugar If avoiding soy you can use coconut aminos or simply leave it out for a slightly lighter taste Fresh pineapple subs in for canned but can lend a more acidic bite so taste and adjust sweetness as you go

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a star with fluffy white or brown rice For holiday feasts try it alongside mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes For an easy lunch spoon leftovers onto toasted Hawaiian rolls and top with a slice of melty cheese

Cultural and Historical Notes

Sweet glazed hams like this are rooted in classic American comfort cooking often making appearances at holiday buffets and family potlucks The pairing of pineapple and ham grew in popularity in the mid twentieth century reflecting the era’s fascination with tropical and sweet savory dishes

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring or summer serve cold or at room temperature over a fresh salad In winter double the glaze and serve extra saucy for comfort With leftover spiral cut ham from holidays this is a fast way to reinvent the main ingredient

This ham is always a winner and the leftovers are even better the next day You will love how easy it is to make and share with those you love

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well. Simply chop and use about 2 cups, saving any juice for the glaze.

→ What kind of ham is best?

Diced cooked ham, either leftover or store-bought, is ideal for even baking and flavor absorption.

→ How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Bake uncovered as directed, but watch the final minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pairs nicely with warm rice, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even buttery mashed potatoes.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for best flavor.