All the delicious flavor of a traditional glazed holiday ham without the time and effort of roasting an entire ham! These Pineapple Glazed Ham Steaks are sweet, savory, juicy, and coated in a beautiful caramelized pineapple glaze that makes every bite irresistible.
Made with tender ham steaks, juicy pineapple rings, brown sugar, honey, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this easy recipe delivers classic holiday flavors in a fraction of the time.
Whether you’re preparing a smaller Christmas dinner, a special Easter brunch, or simply looking for a delicious weeknight meal, these glazed ham steaks are a wonderful choice. They come together in one skillet and pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or fluffy dinner rolls.
The combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham creates a delicious balance that your whole family will love!
Ingredients
For the Ham Steaks
- 2 fully cooked ham steaks (about 8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 pineapple rings, drained
- 4 maraschino cherries, optional
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves, optional
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- A pinch of black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, ground cloves, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Step 2: Brown the ham steaks
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the ham steaks in the skillet. Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned and heated through. Transfer them to a plate temporarily.
Step 3: Cook the pineapple
Add the pineapple rings to the same skillet. Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the pineapple glaze
Pour the prepared glaze mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for approximately 4–6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
Step 5: Coat the ham steaks
Return the ham steaks to the skillet and spoon the warm pineapple glaze generously over each one. Allow them to simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes, turning once so both sides are coated.
Make sure the ham is heated to 140°F (60°C) if it is labeled fully cooked and has been properly refrigerated.
Step 6: Add the pineapple rings
Place the caramelized pineapple rings over the ham steaks. Add a maraschino cherry to the center of each ring if desired. Spoon a little extra glaze over everything.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Transfer the ham steaks to a serving platter and drizzle with the remaining pineapple glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350–400 per serving, depending on the ham and glaze portions
Chef’s Tips
- Choose the right ham: Fully cooked ham steaks make this recipe especially quick and convenient.
- Don’t burn the glaze: Keep the heat at medium-low once the sugar and honey are added.
- Add extra flavor: A little orange zest or fresh orange juice gives the pineapple glaze a wonderful citrus note.
- Make it thicker: Allow the glaze to simmer a little longer if you prefer a thicker, stickier consistency.
- For extra caramelization: Give the pineapple rings a little extra time in the skillet until their edges turn golden brown.
What to Serve with Pineapple Glazed Ham Steaks
These sweet and savory ham steaks pair wonderfully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Garlic roasted green beans
- Honey glazed carrots
- Southern-style macaroni and cheese
- Fresh garden salad
- Warm homemade dinner rolls
Storage Instructions
Allow leftover ham steaks to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container with some of the remaining glaze. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of pineapple juice or water until thoroughly heated. Avoid high heat, as it can dry out the ham.
Final Tip: Don’t skip the pineapple glaze! Its sweet, tangy flavor is what makes these quick ham steaks taste like a special holiday meal without all the work.