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Flavorful Smoked Ham Steak with Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze

smoked ham steak pineapple brown sugar glaze - featured image

A quick and easy dinner recipe featuring smoky ham steak glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple brown sugar sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces smoked ham steak (thick-cut preferred)
  • 2 fresh pineapple rings (about 4 inches each) or canned pineapple rings in juice
  • ½ cup brown sugar (light, packed firmly)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons softened butter, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir until smooth and spreadable. Set aside.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Warm until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the smoked ham steak to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and caramelized edges form. Flip with tongs.
  4. Spread half of the pineapple brown sugar glaze over the ham steak. Cook the second side for 3-4 minutes, spooning melted glaze over the top to build a sticky coating.
  5. Place 2 pineapple rings in the pan around the ham. Cook for 2 minutes per side, basting with remaining glaze to caramelize.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low. Spoon remaining glaze over ham and pineapple. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes until glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
  7. Ensure ham steak is hot throughout with a slightly crispy edge and caramelized crust.
  8. Transfer ham steak and pineapple to plates. Spoon any extra pan glaze over the top and serve immediately.

Notes

Use medium heat to avoid burning the glaze. If glaze starts to burn, reduce heat and add a splash of water. Flip pineapple rings carefully to prevent bitterness. For extra smoky flavor, broil for 1-2 minutes after glazing but watch closely to avoid burning. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked ham steak, pineapple glaze, brown sugar glaze, quick dinner, easy recipe, sweet and savory, skillet ham steak