Easy Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake-Tender ham and juicy pineapple baked in a sticky brown sugar glaze—your shortcut to holiday magic

Introduction

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is a sweet and savory classic that’s as easy as it is delicious. With just a few pantry staples and leftover ham, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The pineapple adds brightness, the brown sugar caramelizes into a sticky glaze, and the ham soaks up all that flavor like a sponge.

Whether you’re serving it as a holiday centerpiece or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor in every bite

Ingredients

2 lbs cooked ham, diced
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve ¼ cup juice)
½ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard
1 tbsp soy sauce
¼ cup reserved pineapple juice
¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ground cloves (if using) until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Add diced ham and pineapple chunks to the baking dish. Pour glaze over the top and gently stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the ham is heated through and the glaze begins to caramelize around the edges.

Step 5: Serve

Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to thicken slightly. Serve warm over rice, with roasted veggies, or as a standalone dish.

Tips for Success

Use leftover holiday ham for extra flavor and less prep.
Don’t skip the glaze—it’s the magic that ties everything together.
Cloves add warmth but are optional if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Let it rest after baking to allow the glaze to set.

Serving Suggestions

Over steamed rice for a Hawaiian-style bowl
With roasted green beans or carrots for a colorful plate
On a baked potato for a loaded, sweet-savory topping
With Hawaiian rolls as sliders for a party-friendly option

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze
Tropical Twist: Stir in shredded coconut or mango chunks
Cheesy Option: Top with shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes
Vegetarian Swap: Use plant-based ham or tofu cubes

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short bursts to retain moisture

Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake is sweet, sticky, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, it’s a dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table with minimal effort.