Pineapple Glazed Ham

Every time I make this Pineapple Glazed Ham, it brings a flood of memories rushing back. I can almost hear the laughter of my family gathered around the table, eager to dig into this delicious dish. The aroma wafting from the oven as it bakes fills my home with warmth, and I know that once you try it, you’ll feel that same cozy comfort that makes it a holiday staple!

There’s something magical about ham, especially when it’s glazed with sweet pineapple juice and a hint of Dijon mustard. It turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Easter dinner or a special Sunday gathering, this ham is sure to bring your family together. So, let’s dive right in and create some fabulous memories together!

How to Make Pineapple Glazed Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-cooked ham (bone-in or boneless), about 8-10 pounds – This is the star of the show! A bone-in ham is often juicier and full of flavor, but a boneless ham can be more convenient if you prefer easier slicing.
• 1 cup pineapple juice – This gives the glaze its fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory ham.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze, giving it that gorgeous, sticky finish.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – This tangy element balances the sweetness and elevates the entire dish.
• 1/4 cup honey – Honey adds another layer of sweetness and helps the glaze stick to the ham.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Cloves bring a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.

You might be surprised at how these simple ingredients work together to create something truly delicious! I often swap the pineapple juice for fresh juice or even add some crushed pineapple into the glaze for a little extra texture.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven. First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is key! Trust me, you don’t want to rush this step. A properly preheated oven will ensure even cooking and a beautifully caramelized glaze.

2. Prepare your ham. Next, take the ham out of its packaging and place it in a roasting pan. If it’s a bone-in ham, the bone should be facing down. This helps keep the meat tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.

3. Mix the glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and ground cloves. Whisk them until everything is nicely blended. You’ll love how sweet and tangy it smells!

4. Brush the glaze on the ham. Now comes the fun part: brushing that gorgeous glaze over the ham! Make sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies. The more glaze you can get on there, the better it will taste as it cooks.

5. Cover and bake. Cover the ham loosely with foil. This will help keep the moisture in. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you’re using a meat thermometer, you want the internal temperature to reach around 140°F (60°C).

6. Baste with the glaze. I like to baste the ham every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the bottom of the pan. This keeps it extra moist and ensures a beautifully sticky glaze.

7. Remove the foil. About 30 minutes before it’s finished, take off the foil. This step is crucial for achieving that caramelized, shiny finish on the outside of your ham.

8. Let it rest. Once your ham reaches the right temperature, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is so important! It allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice even juicier.

9. Slice and serve. Finally, it’s time to slice the ham! If you’ve used a bone-in ham, you might want to cut along the bone to make slicing easier. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch as everyone gathers around the table.

Why I Love Making This Dish

Making Pineapple Glazed Ham has become a cherished tradition in my home. It’s a dish that my family looks forward to, and I love that I can share it with them during our special gatherings. The sweet and tangy flavors meld perfectly together, creating a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and festive. I find joy in seeing their smiles as they take their first bites, and I can’t help but feel grateful for the memories we create around the dinner table.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need a few tools. A roasting pan is essential for holding all those delicious juices. A good meat thermometer will help you ensure your ham is cooked just right. And don’t forget a basting brush – it’s key for getting that glaze all over your ham!

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare your ham by placing it in a roasting pan.
3. Blend the glaze ingredients together.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham.
5. Cover loosely with foil and bake.
6. Baste the ham every 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Allow the ham to rest before slicing.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Results

To achieve the perfect Pineapple Glazed Ham, here are a few of my personal tricks:

• Choose the right ham: Bone-in ham tends to be juicier while boneless is easier to carve.
• Baste regularly: This will keep the meat moist and enhance the flavor.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the glaze for a unique twist!

Serving Suggestions and Sides

This ham is wonderful on its own, but it shines even brighter with the right sides. I love serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh green salad. You could also put together some homemade dinner rolls to soak up that glorious glaze. And don’t forget the cranberry sauce; that tangy sweetness complements the ham beautifully!

Leftovers

Now, let’s talk leftovers — if you have any! Pineapple Glazed Ham keeps well in the refrigerator for about four days. Simply store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. It makes for delicious sandwiches, or you can chop it up and add it to salads and casseroles. Trust me, it’s just as tasty the second time around!

FAQ Section

Can I use boneless ham? You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard will do in a pinch. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still add a nice tang!

How do I know when the ham is done cooking? Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked hams, and cook it longer if necessary.

What’s the best way to slice the ham? If you have a bone-in ham, start by slicing along the bone to get even pieces. Then cut the slices from there.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of juice? Absolutely! If you want to get creative, crushed pineapple can be added for texture right into the glaze, giving it a fresh twist.

This Pineapple Glazed Ham recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen, and I’m so excited for you to try it. The flavors meld together perfectly, and I just know your family will love it as much as mine does! It’s an easy-to-make dish that carries a warmth and charm that brings people together. Let me know how it turns out for you, and if your family asks for seconds – just like mine does every time! Happy cooking!