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There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham wafting through the house as it bakes to perfection. This recipe came to life one holiday season when I realized I wanted something more than the usual roasted meats. The combination of juicy ham, luscious pineapple, and rich brown sugar creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully, providing a mouthwatering bite that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re preparing a festive feast or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is not only simple to make but also a true crowd-pleaser. Imagine serving a glorious centerpiece that looks as stunning as it tastes, with each slice bursting with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a memorable meal that warms the heart and satisfies those comfort food cravings. So gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why is Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham irresistible?

Aroma: The sweet aroma of baking ham fills your kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and holiday cheer.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this dish is perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of pineapple, dark brown sugar, and Dijon mustard creates a deliciously sticky glaze that elevates the humble ham.
Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: Serve it at parties, and watch your guests rave about the flavor and presentation!
Variability: Feel free to experiment with spices to put your spin on this classic dish, like adding a hint of cloves or cinnamon for extra warmth.
Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or making dinner special on a weekday, this recipe is bound to impress!

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Ingredients

For the Ham
• Ham – The main protein source that you want for this recipe; a pre-sliced quarter ham ensures ease of serving.

For the Glaze
• Pineapple – Brings sweetness and moisture to the glaze; you can use fresh or canned for your convenience.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Provides deep sweetness and flavor; substitute with light brown sugar if you prefer a milder taste.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients; yellow mustard can stand in if Dijon is unavailable.

Additional Flavors (optional)
• Spices – Use your favorite spices to enhance the glaze’s flavor profile; consider cloves or cinnamon for a warm twist!

The perfect Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham will be the star of your holiday meals, making every gathering special!

How to Make Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure the ham cooks evenly and beautifully.
Mix the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pineapple (chunked or crushed), 1 cup of dark brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Stir until well blended, creating a sticky, sweet mixture.
Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to coat all slices. This helps each bite of ham absorb sweetness and flavor as it bakes in the oven.
Bake the ham uncovered for about 50 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15-20 minutes to keep it moist and develop a rich, caramelized surface.
Check the doneness visually by looking for a beautifully caramelized and glossy exterior. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor.

Optional: Garnish with fresh pineapple slices before serving for an extra touch of festivity and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham preparations are a lifesaver for busy hosts! You can prepare the glaze—mixing together the pineapple, dark brown sugar, and Dijon mustard—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also brush the glaze over the ham and cover it tightly; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the ham in the oven as directed and bake it, basting periodically for that gorgeous caramelized crust. This way, your main dish will be just as delightful, saving you valuable time and stress during holiday meal prep!

What to Serve with Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?

Imagine the laughter and love around your table as you put together a feast that pairs perfectly with this sweet and savory centerpiece.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness adds a rich contrast to the glazed ham, making each bite heavenly.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these vibrant carrots enhance the overall sweetness of the glaze, adding a pop of color to your plate.
Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the sticky sweetness of the ham.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the ham.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up any sticky glaze left behind, ensuring no delicious flavors go to waste.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This fruity dessert echoes the flavors in the ham, rounding off your meal with a delightful sweetness that will leave everyone craving more.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink adds a joyful fizz to your meal, complementing the ham’s sweetness while refreshing your palate with each sip.

Storage Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Refrigeration: Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, ensuring it remains flavorful and juicy for your next meal.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag; the ham can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place the ham in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy leftover slices as part of a hearty breakfast, in sandwiches, or as a savory addition to salads—creatively extending the deliciousness of your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham!

Expert Tips for Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Defrosting First: Ensure your ham is fully defrosted if frozen. This helps achieve even cooking and allows the glaze to penetrate properly.
Basting Technique: Baste the ham every 15-20 minutes for that rich, sticky exterior. This vital step keeps the meat moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.
Perfect Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 140°F. This ensures your Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham is warm and safe to eat.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any ham left, store it in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months; just make sure it’s well-wrapped!
Enhancing Flavor: Don’t be shy about adding optional spices. A hint of cloves or cinnamon can transform the flavor profile into something truly unique and delightful.

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful ham recipe with these fun twists to suit your taste buds!

Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cloves or cinnamon to the glaze for a warm, aromatic flair.
The comforting spices create a cozy vibe, perfect for family gatherings and holiday feasts.
Citrus Zing: Stir in a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice for a zesty burst of flavor.
This bright twist complements the sweetness beautifully, bringing a fresh contrast to each bite.
Sweet Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the glaze for a spicy kick.
The heat elevates the sweet glaze, offering a delightful surprise that will keep your guests guessing!
Maple Twist: Substitute half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness.
The maple syrup enhances the overall flavor, creating a unique and indulgent version of the classic ham.
Nutty Crunch: Top the glazed ham with crushed pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful texture contrast.
The added crunch will take your dish to the next level, providing a satisfying bite that everyone will love.
Herb-Infused: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a savory herby flavor.
The herbs infuse the ham with a fresh aroma, making your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant!
Pineapple Express: Use a mix of fresh pineapple chunks and canned for added texture and flavor variation.
This takes the tropical taste up a notch, creating a delightful play on flavors and textures in every slice.
Berry Flavor: Fold in some crushed raspberries or cherries into the glaze for a fruity surprise.
The berry addition offers a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the rich ham, impressing your guests with every bite.

Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ham for this recipe?
Look for a pre-sliced quarter ham, as it offers convenient serving options and evenly cooks through. Ensure the ham is fully defrosted and not overly fatty, ideally with a nice marbling of meat that promises juiciness.

How can I store leftovers from the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Leftover ham can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed well to retain moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, wrapping it tightly in foil and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag allows it to stay fresh for up to two months.

Can I freeze Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham? How do I do it correctly?
Absolutely! To freeze, first wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped inside. Then, place the wrapped ham in a freezer-safe bag and label it with the date. For optimal flavor and texture, consume it within two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep it juicy.

What should I do if my glaze isn’t thickening as expected?
If your glaze doesn’t thicken, it could be necessary to cook it on the stove for a few minutes. Place the glaze mixture in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer it gently until it reduces and becomes syrupy. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes, constantly stirring to avoid burning. Once thickened, brush it over the ham for that perfect sticky finish.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re serving the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham to guests, be aware of common dietary restrictions. Ham may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Additionally, check for allergies to either mustard or pineapple. If your guests have specific dietary needs, consider alternative glazes using maple syrup or other fruit juices for different flavor profiles.

What can I serve with the Sticky Pineapple Brown Sugar Glazed Ham?
Pair this show-stopping ham with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant green beans, or a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. You can also make sandwiches with the leftovers the next day for a delightful twist!