Easy Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham Bake

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.

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