Ham with Pineapple Glaze is a holiday favorite that blends the rich, salty flavor of baked ham with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This classic dish often takes center stage at festive gatherings, from Easter brunch to Christmas dinner, and it’s easy to see why. The sticky, golden glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding both visual appeal and mouthwatering flavor to every slice.
The pairing of ham and pineapple might seem unexpected, but the balance of sweet and savory is what makes this dish so popular. The natural saltiness of the ham is offset by the bright, sugary notes of the pineapple glaze, which often includes ingredients like brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of clove or ginger. As the ham bakes, the glaze thickens and coats the outside, creating a glossy finish that seals in moisture and flavor.
This dish is not only visually striking but also incredibly easy to prepare, especially if you’re using a pre-cooked or spiral-cut ham. The glaze can be brushed on in layers during baking, allowing it to soak into the meat and develop a beautiful, sticky crust. Pineapple rings or chunks can be arranged over the ham, adding texture and a juicy bite that contrasts with the dense, meaty slices.
Ham with Pineapple Glaze pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy scalloped potatoes, roasted green beans, or sweet potato casserole. The tropical sweetness also complements rice dishes or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Leftovers are a bonus—thick slices can be used in sandwiches, chopped into omelets, or diced into soups and stews for days after the main event.
This dish is a celebration in itself. With its rich aroma, gorgeous presentation, and satisfying flavor, Ham with Pineapple Glaze turns any gathering into a special occasion. It’s a timeless recipe that brings comfort, joy, and a touch of sweetness to the table.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds ham fully cooked and bone-in
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves ground
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface in a diamond pattern.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Brush the prepared glaze over the entire surface of the ham.
- Bake the ham in the preheated oven, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Remove the ham from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, and serve warm.
Nutrition
