Oh my goodness, am I excited to share this recipe with you! Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices bring all the sweet and savory goodness to the table, making it the ultimate showstopper for any gathering. It’s a dish that holds a dear place in my heart and my stomach, primarily because growing up, my family pulled out this gem during special holidays and celebrations. The smell wafting through the house, the sight of that gleaming ham drizzled with a buttery, fruity glaze—it’s just pure joy!
I’ve had countless memories around this savory dish, from family gatherings where we’d hold hands and say, “What are we thankful for?” to cozy, candle-lit dinners with friends all gushing about the flavors. The combination of the sweet pineapple, honey, and the tangy mustards truly makes this dish stand out. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even on those busy weeknights when I want something special to grace our dinner table!
What’s in Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices?
Let’s break it down and see what goes into this scrumptious creation:
Ham: We’re using a large fully cooked ham sliced into thick rounds. You can pick your favorite brand; I usually opt for one that’s nicely marbled for that extra juiciness.
Pineapple Juice: This magical juice is the foundation of our glaze, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham. Feel free to use 100% pure pineapple juice, ideally without added sugar.
Brown Sugar: A key ingredient that adds a rich caramel sweetness to the glaze. I always prefer light brown sugar for a subtle flavor, but dark brown works wonders too!
Honey: This is the secret to a deeper sweetness and glossy finish. I love using local honey as it adds a personal touch and a burst of flavor.
Dijon Mustard: A tiny bit of tang to balance out the sweetness, and it kicks up the flavor profile. Any brand you love will do, but I have a soft spot for the smooth, creamy varieties.
Whole Grain Mustard: Adding texture and an earthy flavor, whole grain mustard elevates the dish beautifully. If you can’t find it, yellow mustard works just as well.
Pineapple Rings: These add that iconic tropical flair! Don’t forget to drain them properly so your glaze isn’t too watery.
Maraschino Cherries: Because every good ham deserves a cherry on top! These little gems add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A dash of black pepper at the end gives a lovely contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the dish’s overall complexity.
Is Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices Good for You?
Let’s chat about the nutrition side of things! While Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices are undeniably mouthwatering and perfect for special occasions, they do come with a few considerations.
Ham: Packed with protein, ham provides a robust base, but it can be high in sodium. Choosing a low-sodium option can keep the saltiness in check.
Pineapple Juice: This juice is rich in Vitamin C and contains natural sugars. If you’re watching your sugar intake, moderation is key here.
Brown Sugar and Honey: While both bring sweetness, they also contribute to the calorie count. Using less can still yield delicious results if you’d like to dial back a bit.
Overall, enjoy these delectable slices in moderation! Pairing them with fresh veggies or a nice salad can help balance the sweetness and add some crunch to your meal.
Ingredients List
– 1 large fully cooked ham, sliced into thick rounds
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup whole grain mustard (or yellow mustard)
– 1 can sliced pineapple rings, drained (reserve juice)
– 1 jar (about 12 oz) maraschino cherries, drained
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on how hungry everyone is (no judgment here!).
How to Make Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices?
Ready to dive in? Here’s how you whip up this awesome dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation is half the fun!
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. Heat over medium until it simmers, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Take a moment to smell that amazing blend!
3. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced ham in a single layer. It’s like laying out a cozy blanket of ham.
4. Pour the glaze over the ham slices, making sure each one is coated in that sweet goodness.
5. Top each ham slice with a pineapple ring—pop! If it feels a bit wobbly, secure it with a toothpick or skewer. Place a maraschino cherry right in the center of each ring for a touch of fancy.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly. Don’t forget to baste with the glaze halfway through to keep the flavors drenched!
7. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before diving in. Drizzle any remaining glaze on top for that extra oomph!
Serving Suggestions for a Festive Touch!
Now that you have this amazing dish ready, how should you serve it? Here are my favorite ideas:
– Serve with a cozy side of roasted veggies or mashed potatoes to soak up that glaze.
– Pair it with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
– Leftovers? Slice them thin for sandwiches the next day! The flavors only get better.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in that kitchen and let the pineapple and ham magic begin! Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about this one for years to come. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Enjoy!
