There’s nothing quite like the enticing scent of a savory ham steak sizzling in the skillet, laced with the sweetness of brown sugar and butter. The moment I first tried this Brown Sugar Ham Steak, I knew I had discovered something special. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was searching for a dish that could bring a touch of warmth and comfort to my kitchen.
What surprised me most was how simple and quick it is to prepare, without sacrificing flavor. Just a few ingredients transform a fully cooked ham steak into a mouthwatering meal ready in under 20 minutes! Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a simple meal to break the monotony of takeout, this recipe is here to make your taste buds dance. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this delightful dish that proves homemade can be both easy and extraordinary!
Why is Brown Sugar Ham Steak a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe delivers a delicious meal using just three main ingredients, all while taking only 15 minutes to prepare.
Rich, Sweet Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and brown sugar creates a sweet and savory delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a quick weekday meal, this ham steak is incredibly versatile and always a hit.
Crowd-Pleasing Awesomeness: Impress your friends and family with minimal effort – they’ll never guess how easy it was!
Quick Clean-Up: Thanks to the one-skillet method, you can savor your meal without a mountain of dishes afterward.
Elevate your weeknight dinners by trying this delightful recipe, or explore more quick dinner ideas to keep your meal rotation exciting!
Brown Sugar Ham Steak Ingredients
For the Ham
- Bone-in fully cooked ham steak – This main ingredient ensures a juicy and flavorful base for our dish.
For the Sauce
- Butter – The richness of butter adds a silky texture to the sauce, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- Brown sugar – This sweetener not only creates a beautiful caramelization but is the key player in achieving that irresistible flavor you’ll love.
Revisit how delightful homemade meals can be with this easy Brown Sugar Ham Steak recipe!
How to Make Brown Sugar Ham Steak
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Cook the ham steak in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s beautifully browned, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This will create a delicious crust on the ham.
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Remove the ham from the skillet and drain off any fat. This step is crucial for keeping the dish flavorful and not greasy.
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Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, mixing thoroughly until it’s a delightful mixture that begins to bubble gently.
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Return the ham to the skillet. Cook and turn the ham often until it’s heated through and the brown sugar has dissolved, which should take about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the heat; reduce it if the mixture starts to pop or splatter.
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Serve and enjoy this delectable dish! Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brown Sugar Ham Steak Variations
Customize your Brown Sugar Ham Steak with these delicious variations that’ll excite your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the butter for a burst of aromatic flavor. It elevates the dish and adds a beautiful fragrance.
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Pineapple Twist: Top the ham steak with fresh pineapple slices before returning it to the skillet. The juicy pineapple caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. The natural maple flavor infuses a comforting sweetness that’s perfect for breakfast or dinner.
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Garlic Lovers: Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding the brown sugar. The garlic adds depth and richness that complements the ham beautifully.
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Fruit Glaze: Create a glaze using apple or peach preserves instead of brown sugar for a fruity sweetness. This adds a delightful glaze with a fruity shine.
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Balsamic Drizzle: After cooking, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the ham steak for a tangy contrast. The acidity balances the sweetness perfectly, creating a sophisticated flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, just before serving. Their crunchiness adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor to the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Ham Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Brown Sugar Ham Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap the ham steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight freezer bag. This can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm the ham steak in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until heated through.
Avoid Drying Out: Always add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent the ham from drying out. Enjoy your meal!
What to Serve with Brown Sugar Ham Steak?
There’s something so heartwarming about creating a full meal around the sweet and savory notes of this dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They add a velvety contrast that complements the sweetness of the ham. The light fluffiness can absorb the delicious ham juices perfectly.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch and garlicky flavor enhance the ham’s sweetness. Plus, its vibrant green hue adds a fresh touch to your plate.
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Crisp Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings brightness to the meal, balancing the richness of the ham steak beautifully. This makes for a refreshing crunch in every bite.
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Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous tossed with herbs works wonderfully with the glaze. It soaks up the sweet butter sauce, making each forkful delightful.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the brown sugar in the ham steak while their tender bite adds a comforting touch to the meal.
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Homemade Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread harmonizes perfectly with the flavors, offering a delightful texture to contrast the savory ham.
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Apple Cider: This drink adds a lovely tartness that cuts through the richness of the dish, enhancing every bite.
Each of these pairings will not only complement the Brown Sugar Ham Steak but also create a beautifully balanced meal that satisfies both the eyes and the taste buds. Enjoy crafting your cozy, unforgettable dining experience!
Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Ham Steak
• Right Ham Choice: Select a quality bone-in fully cooked ham steak for optimal flavor and juiciness; avoid pre-sliced options that could dry out.
• Perfect Sear: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the ham steak. A good sear helps develop that wonderful crust and adds depth of flavor.
• Watch the Sugar: Stir the brown sugar consistently as it melts; it can burn easily if the heat is too high, ruining the sauce’s sweetness.
• Ideal Thickness: Aim for a ham steak that’s about 1 inch thick; this will ensure even cooking and a delightful texture throughout.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh greens or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The sweetness of the brown sugar ham steak complements savory sides beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Sugar Ham Steaks are a fantastic choice for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the ham steak by browning it in advance and then refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. Simply cook the ham as directed in the recipe. After browning, allow it to cool, then place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the ham in a skillet while melting the butter and stirring in the brown sugar until combined and bubbling, then return the ham to finish heating through. This method ensures your meal remains just as delicious, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor!
Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of ham steak should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! I recommend using a bone-in fully cooked ham steak for optimal flavor and juiciness. These types tend to provide a richer taste and a tender texture that’s hard to beat. Avoid pre-sliced options as they can dry out more easily during cooking.
How long can I store leftover Brown Sugar Ham Steak?
You can store your leftover Brown Sugar Ham Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it up. This helps maintain its freshness so you can enjoy it later!
Can I freeze Brown Sugar Ham Steak? If so, how?
Yes, you can! First, wrap the ham steak tightly in plastic wrap to ensure no air gets in. Then, place it in an airtight freezer bag. This method keeps it safe from freezer burn, allowing you to enjoy it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the brown sugar starts to burn while cooking?
If you notice the brown sugar and butter mixture starting to pop or splatter, it means the heat is too high. Immediately reduce the heat to low and continue cooking. Stir the mixture gently to prevent burning, and it will still create that delicious glaze once you return the ham to the skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for people with food allergies?
Very! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it consists of ham, butter, and brown sugar. However, if you or your guests have specific allergies, make sure to double-check the ingredients in the brown sugar and butter. If you’re concerned about lactose, consider using a dairy-free butter alternative.
Mouthwatering Brown Sugar Ham Steak in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the ham steak in a large skillet over medium heat until it's beautifully browned, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Remove the ham from the skillet and drain off any fat.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, mixing until it bubbles gently.
- Return the ham to the skillet. Cook and turn the ham until heated through and the brown sugar has dissolved, about 10 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy with your favorite sides.
