Dinner Favorite: Grandma’s Ham with Pineapple Sauce
If you want a spectacular, sweet and savory centerpiece that makes any dinner feel like a holiday celebration, Grandma’s Ham with Pineapple Sauce is the perfect choice. This traditional recipe pairs thick, smoky slices of ham with a warm, glossy brown sugar and pineapple glaze.
The sweet fruit sauce cuts through the rich, salty meat beautifully. Baked to juicy perfection, this comforting dish brings the festive warmth of Grandma’s holiday table straight to your family!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ham
The Perfect Flavor Contrast: The combination of salty, smoky ham and a sweet, zesty pineapple glaze creates an incredible flavor balance.
Effortless Entertaining: This simple recipe requires very little prep work, allowing you to feed a large crowd with minimal effort.
Incredibly Juicy Results: Baking the ham under a blanket of sweet juices keeps the meat wonderfully moist and tender throughout.
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Ham
Score the Top of the Ham: Use a sharp knife to cut a shallow diamond pattern into the top surface of your ham before baking. This simple step allows the sweet pineapple glaze to sink deep into the meat rather than just running off the sides into the bottom of the pan.
Baste the Meat Frequently: Do not just apply the glaze once and forget about it! Spoon the sweet juices from the bottom of the baking dish back over the top of the ham every twenty minutes. Frequent basting creates a thick, sticky, and beautifully caramelized exterior crust.
Thicken the Sauce for Serving: Pour the leftover pan juices into a small saucepan on the stovetop after baking. Whisk in a tiny cornstarch slurry and bring it to a boil for one minute. This creates a rich, silky gravy that you can pass around the table for extra drizzling.
If you have any leftovers, they are absolutely perfect for chopping up to make my quick Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta.
Dinner Favorite: Grandma’s Ham with Pineapple Sauce
Equipment
- 1 5 to 6 quart slow cooker (with a lid)
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 large spoon
Ingredients
- 1 (4 to 5 lb.) fully cooked boneless ham
- 1 ¼ Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 can (20 oz.) unsweetened crushed pineapple, undrained
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
Instructions
- Place the ham in a 5 or 6 quart slow cooker.
- In a small saucepan, mix the lemon juice and cornstarch until smooth.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Pour over the ham, making sure to cover completely.
- Cook, covered on low for 6-8 hours. A thermometer inserted into the ham should read at least 140°.
Nutrition
We Want to Hear From You!
Are you ready to fill your entire home with the mouthwatering aroma of smoky ham and sweet brown sugar? Grab a baking dish and let’s start cooking Grandma’s favorite!
Did this classic ham with pineapple sauce bring a festive smile to your dinner table? Please leave a comment down below and give this recipe a star rating! It always makes my day to hear from you. Don’t forget to hit that share button and pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest holiday boards!
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