Baked Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham – Juicy, Easy & Foolproof (With Leftover Ideas!)
A baked ham with brown sugar and pineapple is always a crowd-pleaser. The sweet caramelized glaze, the juicy slices, and the hint of tangy pineapple make it a classic for Easter, Christmas, and family gatherings. This version keeps things simple with just a few ingredients while delivering big flavor. So, let’s dive into the process of preparing this baked ham.
The best part? Leftovers. Ham is one of those ingredients that can be turned into quick and easy meals, so nothing goes to waste. From sandwiches to soups, there are plenty of ways to use up any extra slices of your delicious baked ham, and I’m sharing some favorites below.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
✔️ 3 Simple Ingredients – No complicated glaze, just brown sugar, pineapple, and ham!
✔️ Juicy & Flavorful – The pineapple juice keeps the ham tender while the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully.
✔️ Perfect for Holidays – A showstopping dish for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
✔️ Great for Leftovers – Use extra ham for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. Baked ham really makes holiday meals special!
Ingredients
Ham:
- Spiral-cut bone-in ham is the best choice for this recipe. The slices allow the flavors to soak in while baking, and the bone helps keep the meat juicy.
- Boneless ham works too but tends to be leaner and may dry out more easily. If using boneless ham, check for doneness earlier and baste frequently.
- Ham size matters – Cooking time depends on weight. A good rule of thumb is 10-12 minutes per pound at 350°F.
Brown Sugar:
- Light or dark brown sugar both work, but dark brown sugar has a deeper molasses flavor that enhances the caramelization.
- If you prefer a glaze that’s less sweet, mix brown sugar with Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Pineapple Slices & Juice
- Canned pineapple keeps the recipe easy, but fresh pineapple slices can also be used. If using fresh, add about ½ cup of pineapple juice or orange juice to keep the ham moist.
- Pineapple juice helps tenderize the ham due to its natural enzymes, making it extra juicy.
Optional Flavor Boosters
- A pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves adds warmth and depth.
- Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar are great options for a glaze with a bit more depth, as they help balance the sweetness.
- Whole cloves can be pressed into the ham for a traditional presentation and extra flavor.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a baking dish or roasting pan. Separate the slices slightly and tuck pineapple slices between them. Pour pineapple juice from the can over the ham to keep it moist. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the ham and pineapple.
Step 2: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 1.5 hours (or 10-12 minutes per pound), basting occasionally with the juices. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes and let the sugar caramelize to achieve an ideal baked ham.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Ham
Pair this sweet and savory baked ham with:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Cornbread or Dinner Rolls
- Glazed Sweet Potatoes
- Honey Roasted Carrots
What To Do With Leftover Baked Ham
If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste! Here are some delicious ways to use leftover baked ham:
- Ham and Cheese Sliders – Layer ham with cheese on Hawaiian rolls and bake with a buttery mustard glaze.
- Ham and Egg Breakfast Scramble – Sauté chopped ham with eggs, cheese, and bell peppers.
- Ham and Potato Soup – Simmer diced ham with potatoes, onions, and a creamy broth.
- Ham and Pineapple Salad – Toss diced ham with greens, pineapple chunks, and a honey mustard dressing.
- Ham and Pineapple Pizza – The perfect way to turn leftovers into a fun dinner!
- Ham-Stuffed Baked Potatoes – Load baked potatoes with ham, cheese, and sour cream.
- Ham Fried Rice – Sauté diced ham with rice, eggs, soy sauce, and veggies for a different take on your baked ham.
Pro Tip: Leftover baked ham freezes well! Store slices in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
More Holidays Recipes
- Bring some magic to your table with these 10 creative Easter charcuterie board ideas! Packed with color, flavor, and festive charm, these boards make entertaining easy and fun. From sweet treats to savory bites, each one adds a special touch to holiday gatherings with playful presentations and seasonal ingredients.
- Add some sparkle to your holiday season with this easy Christmas popcorn! A mix of crunchy popcorn, sweet candy, and festive red and green treats make it the ideal snack for kids, movie nights, or holiday gift-giving.
- Add some fun and flavor to your holiday spread with these adorable Christmas avocado pita trees! These easy-to-make appetizers are the perfect festive touch for any holiday gathering. Quick, delicious, and sure to impress your guests!
- Make your holiday snack table extra special with these cheesy spinach dip breadsticks! Shaped like a Christmas tree, these pull-apart treats are perfect for sharing and filled with all the cheesy goodness you need.
- Cooking ham has never been easier! These 25 Crockpot Ham Recipes are slow-cooked to perfection, locking in flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Make a holiday feast, a comforting family meal, or use up leftovers—these recipes will make your slow cooker your new best friend!
If you tried this Baked Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham Recipe or any recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below.
Equipment
- Oven-safe baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in spiral ham pre-cooked
- 1 can pineapple slices with juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 350℉.
- Remove the packaging from the pre-cooked ham and place it in an oven safe casserole dish.
- Open the can of pineapple slices and place the slices between the slices of ham. Then, pour the juice from the can over it. Rub the brown sugar evenly over the pineapple slices and ham. You can adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil and let it cook for 1.5 hours in the oven. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the ham. You want the ham to heat through and the flavors to meld.
- Check the ham periodically. You can baste it with the juices that collect in the dish to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Optional: Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to let the sugar caramelize.
- If using a glaze packet, mix it with a few tablespoons of pineapple juice, brush over the ham, and bake uncovered for 5 minutes.
- Slice the ham and serve it with the pineapple slices.
