As I stood in my kitchen with the savory aroma of a holiday classic filling the air, I couldn't help but feel a rush of nostalgia tied to gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. That’s when I decided to whip up a Pineapple Baked Ham, a dish that effortlessly brings families together. This recipe not only results in a beautifully caramelized ham but also takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned home chefs and those looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. You'll love how the sweet tang of pineapple pairs with the savory goodness of the ham, creating a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress. Are you ready to add a touch of tradition to your table? Let’s dive into this delightful dish together!
Why Is This Pineapple Baked Ham Irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Best: With only 15 minutes of prep, this dish is perfect for busy home cooks.
Tantalizing Balance: The sweet pineapple and savory ham create a mouthwatering harmony that your guests will love.
Impressively Festive: This eye-catching dish becomes the centerpiece of any holiday or special occasion meal.
Nutrient-Packed Delight: Offering 18g of protein per serving, it’s a hearty choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside sides or as leftovers in sandwiches—the possibilities are endless.
Bring home the joy of shared meals with this easy, impressive Pineapple Baked Ham that everyone will be raving about!
Pineapple Baked Ham Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavorful masterpiece!
For the Ham
- Bone-in ham (8–10 lbs) – A juicy choice that’s perfect for baking and serving.
For the Glaze
- Light brown sugar – This adds a rich sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization.
- Dijon mustard – Gives a tangy kick that beautifully offsets the sweetness of the glaze.
- Honey – Enhances the glaze with natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor.
For the Pineapple Topping
- Pineapple rings in juice (1 can, 20 oz) – The star of this dish, bringing vibrant sweetness and moisture to the ham.
- Whole cloves (12) – Use these to secure the pineapple rings and infuse warm, aromatic notes into the ham.
This Pineapple Baked Ham is a delightful dish that balances sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for your next gathering or cozy family dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple Baked Ham
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures that your Pineapple Baked Ham will cook evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy centerpiece. While the oven heats, gather your roasting pan and place it nearby, ready for the ham.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Take your bone-in ham and place it on the roasting pan with the flat side facing down. Using a sharp knife, score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about an inch apart. This scoring allows the delicious glaze to seep into the ham while creating an eye-catching design.
Step 3: Whisk the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of light brown sugar, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, and ¼ cup of honey. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth glaze. The mixture should be well blended, with the sugar dissolving fully to ensure that your Pineapple Baked Ham is beautifully coated.
Step 4: Arrange the Pineapple
Next, take the pineapple rings from the can and arrange them on top of the scored ham. For added flavor, secure each ring with whole cloves by pushing them through the pineapple and into the ham. This step not only adds a touch of festive flair but also infuses the ham with aromatic notes.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the boned ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Make sure to baste the ham every 30 minutes with the leftover glaze, ensuring that your Pineapple Baked Ham develops a rich, caramelized exterior.
Step 6: Check the Temperature
After 1 hour and 15 minutes, check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for optimal flavor and safety. If it hasn’t reached this temperature yet, return it to the oven, checking every 10 minutes until done.
Step 7: Rest the Ham
Once your Pineapple Baked Ham has reached the perfect temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. Now you're ready to serve!
Pineapple Baked Ham Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your family’s tastes!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar and use gluten-free Dijon mustard for a perfect gluten-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet and spicy twist that tantalizes your taste buds. It's a fun way to surprise your guests with unexpected heat!
- Maple-Sweetened: Swap honey for pure maple syrup to impart a unique, deep sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ham's savory flavors. The combination is pure comfort food bliss!
- Fruit Medley: Incorporate sliced peaches or cherries alongside the pineapple rings for a delightful fruity combination that's bursting with flavor. This blend adds a refreshing twist with every bite.
- Smoky Flavor: Before cooking, rub the ham with smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the glaze. The result is a ham that truly stands out at your feast!
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright pop of citrus that elevates the overall flavor profile. Fresh citrus brings a lovely acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the pineapple rings before baking to infuse the ham with fragrant, herbal notes. It adds an enchanting aroma, filling your kitchen with warmth!
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the ham during the last 10 minutes of baking for a rich, tangy finish that takes the dish to a whole new level. It’s sophisticated yet easy!
Make Ahead Options
These Pineapple Baked Ham preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the glaze (1 cup light brown sugar, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, and ¼ cup honey) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. Additionally, you can score the ham and arrange the pineapple rings on top up to 3 days ahead, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap, secure the pineapple with cloves, and follow the baking steps as usual for a tender and tasty Pineapple Baked Ham that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch on the day!
What to Serve with Pineapple Baked Ham
Imagine gathering around the table, delightful aromas swirling in the air, as you create a feast that envelops everyone in warmth and joy.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the sweet and savory ham.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly crispy exterior and tender inside add a nutritious crunch that balances the richness of the dish. Drizzle with balsamic for extra flair!
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Tangy Coleslaw: The crispness and acidity of coleslaw cut through the richness of the ham, refreshing the palate between bites.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: Its sweet and nutty flavors complement the pineapple, making for a harmonious blend of brightness and warmth.
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Hawaiian Rolls: Soft and pillowy, these rolls are perfect for mopping up the ham juices or stacked with slices for mini sandwiches.
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Apple Orchard Salad: A blend of fresh greens, crisp apples, and walnuts contributes a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with the ham's glaze.
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Sparkling Cider: This refreshing drink adds a celebratory touch, its bubbles lifting your spirits and enhancing your festive meal.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Finish your meal with a touch of nostalgia; the sweet, caramelized pineapple echoes the flavors of the main dish, leaving everyone with a smile.
How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Baked Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Pineapple Baked Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked ham at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and maintain quality.
Expert Tips for Pineapple Baked Ham
- Choose Quality Ham: Opt for a high-quality bone-in ham, which is more flavorful and stays moist during cooking.
- Score Deeply: When scoring the ham, ensure your cuts are deep enough to allow the glaze to seep in, enhancing flavor throughout.
- Baste Regularly: Don't forget to baste the ham every 30 minutes; this ensures a beautifully caramelized exterior and juicy meat.
- Check Temperature Closely: Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge when your Pineapple Baked Ham reaches 140°F—don't rely on time alone.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the ham to rest after baking; this step redistributes the juices, making each slice tender and delightful.
Pineapple Baked Ham Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for Pineapple Baked Ham?
Absolutely! A bone-in ham weighing between 8 to 10 lbs is ideal for this recipe. It tends to be more flavorful and moist due to the bone, which helps retain the ham’s natural juices during cooking.
How do I store leftover Pineapple Baked Ham?
Very simply! Store your leftover Pineapple Baked Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its moisture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze Pineapple Baked Ham?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, you can freeze the leftover slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
How do I know when my Pineapple Baked Ham is done?
A great question! To ensure it's just right, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The ham should reach 140°F (60°C). If it hasn't reached this temperature after your initial cooking time, return it to the oven, checking every 10 minutes until it does.
Can I serve Pineapple Baked Ham to my pet?
While Pineapple Baked Ham is safe for humans, avoid giving it to pets. Ham is high in sodium and fats, which can be unhealthy for animals. Instead, consider sharing some plain, cooked meat without seasoning as a treat!
What should I do if my glaze is too thick?
If your glaze ends up too thick, no need to worry! Simply add a tablespoon of warm water or pineapple juice to the mixture, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This will ensure it spreads nicely over the ham while baking.
Delicious Pineapple Baked Ham for a Festive Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Gather your roasting pan.
- Place the bone-in ham on the roasting pan with the flat side down. Score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
- Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the scored ham, securing each with whole cloves.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 30 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature of the ham; it should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
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