Brown Sugar Ham Steak
This Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe transforms an inexpensive ham steak into a sweet and savory dinner in less than 20 minutes. A buttery brown sugar Dijon glaze caramelizes beautifully in the skillet, creating an irresistible sauce for ham steak that’s delicious over mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables. If you’re looking for more easy side dish dinner ideas, you’ll love my Cheesy Corn Casserole or Buttermilk Coleslaw.
Best Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe
Growing up, my mom planned dinners on a simple two-week meal rotation, and this Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe was always one of the meals I looked forward to most. Tender ham coated in a buttery brown sugar and Dijon Mustard glaze was the definition of comfort food, especially when served with creamy macaroni and applesauce.
More than 40 years later, it’s still one of my favorite easy dinners. As the glaze simmers in the skillet, the brown sugar caramelizes while the Dijon Mustard adds just the right amount of tang, creating a rich, buttery sauce that’s delicious spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ham steak is one of my favorite quick dinners because it’s inexpensive, cooks in minutes, and pairs with almost any side dish. Since it’s already fully cooked, all you need to do is warm it through while the buttery brown sugar Dijon glaze caramelizes into a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Ready in about 20 minutes. This easy Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- The sweet and savory glaze is irresistible. Butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and paprika combine to create a rich sauce for ham steak that’s delicious spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
- Budget-friendly and family-approved. This affordable cut of meat makes a hearty meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Made with simple pantry ingredients. Everything you need is easy to find, making this recipe perfect for last-minute dinners.
- A comforting old-fashioned favorite. This smoked ham steak recipe has been a treasured family meal for decades because it’s simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to customize. Add a splash of maple syrup, honey, pineapple juice, or your favorite herbs to make the glaze your own.
Ingredients
Exact ingredient quantities and step-by-step instructions are in the printable recipe card below.
- Smoked Ham Steak – Fully cooked, and ready to heat, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Butter – Butter creates a rich base for the sweet and savory glaze.
- Dijon Mustard – Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Brown Sugar – Brown sugar caramelizes into a rich glaze that pairs perfectly with ham.
- Paprika – Paprika adds color and a subtle smoky flavor to the glaze.
How to Make It
Note: This is a quick overview of the recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete ingredient list, exact measurements, and step-by-step instructions.
Step 1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ham steak and cook until lightly caramelized and golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Step 2. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3. Add the water, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and paprika to the skillet. Stir until combined, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4. Return the ham to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, flip only once, occasionally spooning the glaze over the ham as it cooks.
Step 5. Serve immediately with the warm glaze spooned generously over the top.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcook the ham. Smoked ham slices are fully cooked, so you’re simply heating it through while caramelizing the glaze.
- Double the glaze. Make extra sauce for the ham if you’re serving mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Pat the ham dry. Removing excess moisture helps it brown instead of steam.
- Use a large skillet. The ham should fit in a single layer so it cooks evenly.
- Let the glaze simmer. Cook the glaze until it slightly thickens so it clings to the ham slice.
- Flip only once. Turning the ham once helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Serve immediately. It’s at its juiciest while the glaze is warm and glossy.
- Choose a 1/2- to 3/4-inch ham steak. It stays juicy while the glaze caramelizes.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover ham and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the cooled ham and glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the glaze. Individual portions can also be microwaved in 30-second intervals until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake ham steak instead?
Yes. Place the ham steak in a baking dish, spoon the glaze over the top, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes if you’d like the glaze to caramelize slightly.
Is smoked ham steak already cooked?
Yes. Most smoked ham slices sold at the grocery store are fully cooked and only need to be heated through. This recipe simply warms the ham while creating a rich brown sugar glaze.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes. Honey makes a delicious substitute for brown sugar. Keep in mind the glaze will be slightly thinner and have a milder caramel flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Warm it gently before adding it to the ham.
How do I keep ham steak from drying out?
Since your smoked ham slice is already fully cooked, it only needs to be heated through. Cook it over medium heat and avoid overcooking, which can make it dry and tough. Simmering the ham in the brown sugar glaze also helps lock in moisture and adds extra flavor.
What sides go well with ham steak?
This ham slice pairs well with mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, roasted vegetables, green beans, sweet potatoes, green chile rice casserole, applesauce, or a simple side salad.
Can I use a fresh pork ham steak?
Yes, but fresh pork ham steak is not cured or fully cooked like smoked ham steak. It must be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest, before serving.
Substitutions
- Dijon Mustard: Yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can be used instead.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted or salted butter both work well.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper smoky flavor, while sweet paprika keeps the glaze mild.
- Ham Steak: This recipe works well with smoked ham steak or cured ham steaks that are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
Leftover Ideas
- Dice it into omelets or breakfast scrambles.
- Add it to fried rice or pasta.
- Toss it into creamy potato soup or bean soup.
- Layer it on Hawaiian rolls for quick sliders.
- Chop it into macaroni and cheese or scalloped potatoes.
- Dice it into breakfast hash with potatoes and onions.
I hope you enjoy this Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe as much as my family has over the years. If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!
Save the pin below to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you’ll have this easy Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe ready the next time you need a quick comfort food dinner.
Save the pin below to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you’ll have this easy Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe ready the next time you need a quick comfort food dinner.
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Tried This Recipe?
I love hearing your feedback. Please leave a review if you loved the recipe.
Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe
This easy Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe transformed an inexpensive ham steak into a quick and comforting dinner in just 20 minutes. A buttery brown sugar Dijon glaze caramelizes beautifully in the skillet, creating a rich, sweet and savory sauce that's delicious served with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked ham slice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ham steak and cook until lightly caramelized and golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Add the water, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and paprika to the skillet. Stir until combined, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Return the ham to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, flip only once, occasionally spooning the glaze over the ham as it cooks.
- Serve immediately with the warm glaze spooned generously over the top.
Notes
- Don't overcook the ham. Smoked ham slices are fully cooked, so you're simply heating it through while caramelizing the glaze.
- Double the glaze. Make extra sauce for the ham if you're serving mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Pat the ham dry. Removing excess moisture helps it brown instead of steam.
- Use a large skillet. The ham should fit in a single layer so it cooks evenly.
- Let the glaze simmer. Cook the glaze until it slightly thickens so it clings to the ham slice.
- Flip only once. Turning the ham once helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Serve immediately. It's at its juiciest while the glaze is warm and glossy.
- Choose a 1/2- to 3/4-inch ham steak. It stays juicy while the glaze caramelizes.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 279Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 5gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 88mgSodium 1325mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 1gSugar 17gProtein 26g
Just tried it! Awesome recipe! I didn’t have Dijon mustard so I swapped for honey mustard and added hot sauce. Yum!
Hello Shiloh! I’m so glad you liked it. Adding hot sauce sounds interesting. I’ll have to try it! Kelly
Great recipe, we will make again.
Hello Kathi! I’m so glad you liked it. Thanks for letting me know! Kelly
Going to try this tonight, but my husband HATES mustard and will taste it in anything. What could I substitute with or would it be ok to leave out?
Hello Sarah! That’s a tough one since it’s a main ingredient. You can TRY to substitute it with mayo – but I’m not sure. Kelly
How about prepared horseradish sauce? It would give a tanginess but not mustardy. If that is a no go, then I would try making a homemade aioli in a blender but with lots of flavor via roasted garlic, a little liquid smoke, herbs, heck even a dash of A1 steak sauce or sriracha.
I make a version of this but with a Jack Daniel’s reduction sauce.
It sounds delicious, but Im a single guy not knowing anything about cooking and I noticed you didn’t specify at what heat “low, medium”???,
Hi Gregg!
I would do it on Medium. Thanks for commenting. Kelly
Thanks for writing Julie! It is delicious! Let me know how you like it. Kelly
This was DELICIOUS! I had a Samuel Adams Harvest Hefe sitting next to stove so I put a little in the leftover glaze along with some water/flour to thicken it up and wow, that made one heck of a gravy!!! I will definitely be making this one again!
Thanks!
Hello Julie! Thanks for writing. I’m so glad you loved it – it is darn good. Thanks again, Kelly
Hi! Would you increase the measurements for the glaze is the ham was thicker and weighed more than a pound? If so, what would you recommend, increase accordingly for each pound? For example, it calls for 1/2 cup of water, would you increase to 1 cup if it was a two pound ham steak? Thanks!
Hello Nina! Yes, I would increase the amount – but instead of doubling it I would halve it. Thanks, Kelly
Is this for pre-cooked ham or uncooked?
Hi Margie! The recipe can be for both. The cooking duration really depends if the ham steak is pre-cooked or how thick the steak is. Thanks, Kelly
We’re these specific instructions for a cooked or uncooked ham?
How would you use it for an uncooked ham?
Hello Kaitlyn! I used a cooked ham steak. An uncooked ham steak takes 6-8 minutes on each side to cook all the way through. Thanks for writing in! Kelly
We loved it! This is my second time using your recipe. Yum! Added a touch of hot sauce to it!!
A little hot sauce would be perfect. I’m going to have to try that! Kelly
I just made this recipe and it is a keeper! First time my ham steaks were not too dry. ☺ Thank you!
Hello Katie! Thanks for writing in. It’s such a yummy recipe. Glad you liked it. Kelly
Very good! Glad I tried something different with my ham steak this time. The only thing I would do different is let my sauce caramelize a bit more next time. Thanks for the great recipe!
Hello McKenzie! Thanks for writing in. I’m so glad you enjoyed it. You are very welcome! Kelly
It might be that the ham steaks I got weren’t good quality but, it wasn’t worth scrubbing the glaze out of the frying pan. it was okay, but maybe more mustard and paprika? The brown sugar took over the flavor.
Hello Elise! I’m sorry you weren’t happy with the recipe. I would tinker with it to make it more of your taste. Thanks, Kelly
Tried your recipe. You were correct in predicting rave reviews. It was absolutely delicious. Thanks for sharing.
Hello Ray! Thanks for writing in! I’m so happy you loved it. Kelly
Can I edit my comment? I notice that I made of slight mistake. It should read “Tried your recipe, not Tried you recipe”. Thanks
Hi Ray! I changed it for you! Kelly
Thanks
I grew up on Country fried ham steak.My grandfather was a farmer who raised all of our own beef & pork.This recipe took me back to my childhood days.Thank You for sharing your recipe! It was delicious! I will definitely be making it again!
Hello Maria! I’m so glad it brings back happy memories! Thanks for writing in! Kelly
My first attempt to cooking an entire meal for my wife. She loved it and so did I. Thanks for the post.
Hi Dan! You made my day! I’m so glad it turned out so well. (Plus, no one needs to know how easy it is to make!!) Kelly
My wife and I made this tonight and it was excellent! We did cut the sugar in half and used half a cup of coffee instead of water, and it was a hit. Thanks!
Hello Dave! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Using coffee was a great idea – I’ll have to try it! Kelly
That’s what my Arkansas father-in-law uses in “red eye gravy”
I never heard of that! Interesting. – Kelly
@Dave, that does sound good. thanks dave
Great recipe. Even my picky kid gobbled this right up!
Hello Jenifer! I’m so happy your family enjoyed it. Thanks for writing in. Kelly
I made this tonight and this is beyond delicious! The glaze wasn’t too sweet and the dijon wasn’t overpowering. It was perfect! Thank you for sharing your recipe!
Hello Deena! I’m so glad you like it. This was one of my favorite meals when I was little and it hasn’t changed. Thanks for writing in! Kelly
Could you use regular mustard instead of Dijon?
You can use regular mustard. Let me know how you like it! Kelly
We tried it tonight and everyone loved it!! Thanks so much for the recipe!!!
I’m so glad it worked well. You’re very welcome. Kelly
Tried the recipe, but I substituted Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard. It turned out great! Husband and I approve and we will definitely use this recipe again.
Hello Katy! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
OMG…DELICIOUS
I only had boneless ham steaks I’ll bet it’s off the charts using a true ham steak….Wow love THANKS?
Hello Evelyn! I’m so happy you liked it. It’s a keeper for sure! Kelly
This was everything I had hoped for. The glaze could of been a little more carmelized, but good just the same. Will definately make again!
Hello Jan! I’m so glad you loved it! Thanks for writing in. Kelly
Can you use City Ham?
Hello Jenny! You can use a City Ham – but the cooking instructions will be different and it will taste different. The ham steak is amazing because of the cooking on both sides. You can do a glaze for the City Ham. Kelly
I made this last night, before adding meat to pan I added diced carrots and onion slices. Salt and pepper to taste. Cooked until soft, totally adjustable. Removed veggies then proceeded with recipe. After making sauce added all back to pan. It was a hit. Extra juices from carrots and onion do need to be considered. I could have tightened it up with a cornstarch slurry but choose to leave it. Thank you for the great recipe
Hello Amanda! Thanks for writing in and letting me know you loved it! Kelly
I made this today for the family and they absolutely loved it…even the kids asked for seconds. We didn’t have Dijon mustard so I used regular mustard and it was just as good!
Hello Todd! I’m so glad your kids liked it – I bet part of it was your chef abilities! No Dijon? Oh my goodness. That’s one of my top five ingredients! I’m glad regular mustard tasted good too. Check out my meatloaf recipe – that one is a real winner too! Kelly
@Kelly, of course the kids liked it, it was sweet
Hey Kelly! I’m making this for dinner tonight! What sides do you put with it? Love,
Shay <3
Hello! So sorry about the delay – I’ve been out of town. Applesauce and mac and cheese is the perfect trio in my book. Thanks for writing in! Kelly
Delicious my husband loves this!!
Hello June! I’m so glad he liked it. It’s addicting for sure! Thanks, Kelly
This looks scrumptious! Will make this tonight for dinner. Bored with just heating and serving a ham steak.
Serving with green beans and ‘doctored’ up mac & cheese. I get the store brand (or Kraft if on sale) mac & cheese in the box and then doctor them up with shredded cheese, onions, egg,buttered bread crumbs for a crunchy top and bake in the oven.
Hello Elaine! I love your idea of a doctored mac and cheese to serve with it. You’ll love it! Kelly
I made this tonight with a fresh ham steak. The only thing I changed was using honey Dijon mustard because that’s what I had. I think this is the best ham steak I’ve ever had. Awesome and simple recipe. Thanks for sharing.
Hello Bill! I’m so glad you liked it! I appreciate you letting me know. Thank you so much! Kelly
Yum. The paprika is a nice touch, adds a tasty note. Thank you. Will definitely make again.
Hello Martha! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Kelly
I made this for supper , super easy and delicious ! This is definitely a keeper recipe . Thanks for sharing .
Hello Will! I’m so glad you loved it! Yep, it’s a lifelong recipe that you always make and turns out good! Kelly
The only ham steak at my grocery store was a Smithfield bone-in hardwood smoked slice weighing slightly over a pound. Is this the sort of product you use in this recipe? Would you consider this to serve at a Christmas dinner allowing 1 steak per 2 people, or is this more of a casual weeknight dish?
Hello Rebeckah! I would think of this more of a casual weeknight dish. Yes, the ham slice like you described is what I use. You will love it. Kelly
I made this with bone in pork chops instead of ham steaks just because that’s what I had on hand and I turned out amazing.
Wow Emily! Great idea! I’m going to have to try it. Kelly
So simple and so good. I liked the fact it wasn’t overly sweet. Regretfully no country ham I’m the Northeast. It worked well with a decent smoked ham steak about 1/2 inch thick,
Hello Jim! Thank you for letting me know. It’s a good one, that’s for sure! Kelly
I am going to make this for my wife and me for Christmas dinner. We love ham and the glaze makes it sound even better. Thank you for posting the recipe.
Hello Charles! You will love it. Thanks for letting me know. I want to hear how you liked it! Kelly
I just made this for New Year’s dinner and it’s the first time I’ve ever enjoyed eating ham. Thank you for the recipe!
Hello Gina! You’re very welcome. Thanks for letting me know! Kelly
Can this be thrown together in the slow cooker?
Hello Jasmine! I’ve never done that – but it doesn’t take very long on the stovetop. I would worry about the sugar burning if it was in the slow cooker too long. Kelly
Yea, I made it on the stove top. I used spicy brown mustard since I didn’t have any Dijon or yellow on hand. It was delicious! Thank you!
Hello Jasmine! I’m so glad you loved it! My mom is so proud of this recipe. Kelly
I have made this a few times now and it is delicious. I do it for breakfast. My kids love it.
Hello Natalee! I’m so glad you like it. Make sure you try my meatloaf too – it’s SUPER popular!! Kelly
was tasty, would have loved it to caremlize a bit more, but my picky kid ate and that’s a plus….next time I’ll not add the water b/c hamsteak cooking added enough water….but again, kid ate 2 helpings of the ham…for me that’s a winner!
Hello Michelle! I’m so glad everyone liked it! Yay! I love hearing it’s a winner. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
i’d recommend either drain pan after cooking ham steak before adding rest of ingredients or just don’t add the 1/2 cup water b/c ham steak produces enough liquid. I would have loved more caremlized but again, picky kid ate two helpings…that’s a winner
This recipe rocks! My fiance’s exact words were “I could put this sauce on anything”. Thank you so much for sharing!
Yay! That speaks volumes. Your very welcome. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
I loved the taste of the glaze. Unfortunately, the ham steak was extremely salty, rendering the finished product almost inedible. Do you know of a way to remove excess saltiness?
Hello Ray! Interesting question. You can soak your ham steak in fresh water and then rinse off the salty residue. Kelly
Made this just as written—YUM! Will definitely add it to my recipe rotation. Ham came out moist and tasty!
Hello Cindy! I’m so glad you liked it! Thanks for letting me know! Kelly
Good food
Thank you so much! I’m glad you liked it. Kelly
Just finished this for dinner….it was wonderful! My husband commented about six times how much he liked it, then told me to make sure to keep the recipe. That’s the ultimate compliment!
Hello Liz! Thank you so much for letting me know. I’m glad your husband loved it too! Kelly
My husband said the same thing!
I just made this for my family and they enjoyed it. I posted a pick on my ( meal board )
Hello Peggy! I’m so glad everyone loved it. Kelly
Wow, this glaze and the ham is awesome. I accidentally,y came across your blog, I see some interesting recipes I will have to try. Thank you very much.
Hello Bonnie! I’m so glad you loved it. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
I tried your recipe for the brown sugar ham glaze and it was GREAT !!! And I made mac and cheese as you suggested, great combination. I had some glaze left over and it was so good, I didn’t want to waste it — I did spoon it over the ham after I sliced it on the plates. Thank you so much for the recipe. I will search for more of your recipes.
Hi Linda! I’m so glad you liked it. There’s something magical about the combination of this recipe and macaroni and cheese. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
This was a delicious way to prepare ham steak. My kids even loved it! I paired it with honey roasted carrots and mashed potatoes. Thank you for sharing.
Your meal sounds amazing! Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
Ok, this is seriously flipping awesome! Never shared a post before, but felt the need with this one! My husband and I were speechless, this was so so good, at first bite, we looked at each other and just knew we would have this many more times!
Hello Kim! WOW. Thank you so much for letting me know. I’m so glad you both enjoyed it so much. Kelly
I am not generally a glazed-ham kinda girl, but I got a smoked ham streak and wanted to do something different than plain pan-fry. It was the paprika lured me in and I added a teaspoon of cumin. Oh my goodness! It was all to die for and hubby loved it. Thank you!!
Hello Michelle! It’s a keeper for sure. So easy to make too! Kelly
We had a hog butchered for the first time…it’s cured but not cooked. Can I cook it the same way?
Hi Kim! I would just look for cooking times for the size of your ham slice (height) and a cured piece of meat. But…the sauce would still be fabulous on it!
My mom had a two week rotation as well. Please share what was on her list.
Hello. Just had to pop in and tell you this recipe is our favorite I already posted comment in the past, just doing so again. Made this recipe many times. Every time I see ham steak at the market, I think of you. Today, this will be dinner again. Love this with cranberry sauce. Obvious this is a 5 star recipe.
I kind of gave up on pork many years ago. I was living then in a large North eastern city and the available pork was not the greatest. My attempts at edible ham steak was not happening either. No amount of pineapple, duck sauce, sweet n sour sauce made it edible ! and the curling. { not a good cook back then ) Fast forward, I live very rural now. Never bought half a hog in my life. Many cuts and stunned to see so many ham steaks. And hams. I never cooked a ham in my life. I started small and choose 1 cured ham steak. I followed your simple recipe and the results were AMAZING. It was so delicious and easy. Thank you for the most delicious ham steak I have had in a very long time.
Hi- I have an uncured smoked ham slice ( about 2 pounds) Can I use this for the recipe? Do I need to change anything?
I’m excited to try this.
Hello Kristin – I don’t think there will be a difference. It might take longer to cook and that’s all I can think of. Kelly
Wow! This was so delicious! Thank you fir this super easy recipe. I will definitely make this again. I posted to my Pinterest recipe board.
Hello Barb! I’m so glad you liked it. Thanks for letting me know.
Any chance this could be cooked in the oven? I feel like every time I try to cook any kind of steak on the stovetop, it gets super smoky in the kitchen.
Hello Britney! I’m sure the recipe would work in the oven too. I don’t know how long it should cook for because I never tried it that way, but keep an eye on it because of the brown sugar. You don’t want that to burn. Kelly
from the hills in western Pa.when i was a kid dad would cure all th hams for the neighbors, we ate ham 2 to 3 times a week mom would fry it in a iron skillet along with a big skillet full of raw fried potatoes.at the table we used to cover the ham & fried potatoes with homemade apple sauce MMMMM Good.I still make it for my family that way only don’t eat it quite as often but the salty ham & potatoes covered with sweet applesauce is delicious..
Sounds like a wonderful life Wally. Thank you so much for sharing. Kelly
Can this be done in the crockpot? We have a pretty large, fresh ham steak that looks more like a roast. It’s probably 3lbs?
Hello Jennifer – You can, but you’re going to have to make enough sauce to cover the whole ham. Let me know how it goes.
This dish is delicious! It’s on my favorites list now. I can’t see how anyone wouldn’t love it. I’m so happy I ran across your recipe. Thanks
Hello Kim! I’m so glad you loved it! Thank you for letting me know. Kelly
Is the ham steak fresh?
Yes. It’s the ham steaks you can buy at grocery stores in the packages.
Quick question- I love this recipe but the ham steak tends to be so salty, it makes the glaze way too salty. Could I brown the meat for a minute or two to get some of the liquid out of the ham? Then move on with recipe?
Yes that would work. I would also rinse the ham steak.
I made it tonight for dinner, everyone thought it was very delicious. I will definitely be making this again.
Hello Helen! So glad you loved it. Thank you for letting me know. Kelly
Great simple recipe. I used orange juice instead of water.. just another layer to the taste
Hello Kerch! That’s a great idea. Thanks for that tip. Kelly
Hooray!!! I followed the directions from beginning to end without altering anything and this was simply delicious!!! Congrats to the author!!!
Hello Peggy! I’m so glad you liked the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. Kelly
on the brown sugar glaze I added 1/4 cup raisins, small can diced pineapples and honey mustard with 5 whole cloves,HAM AND GLAZE WAS DELICIOUS!!!
That sounds amazing!
My wife has been sick for a while, so I’ve been trying to learn to cook. A lot of trial and error, to say the least! I used this recipe for the ham steak and everyone absolutely loved it!!!! Thank you!
Hi Pappy! I’m so sorry to hear about your wife. I am glad you loved the recipe. You made my day. Kelly
I always have cooked to my own taste! This recipe was fabulous but I tweaked it a little! Instead of water I used Dole’s pineapple-orange juice and instead of paprika I used a pinch of cloves!
I love your ideas James. Thanks for letting me know. Kelly
For those who live alone, here is a tip !!! go out and buy a ham; slice it into steaks; wrap and freeze !!! I am a senior who lives alone; don’t like waste; do love tasty !!! Such an easy meal with a veggie on the side … yum yum ….
Great idea Wendy!
Thank you for sharing this recipe. We enjoyed the flavors and would not change anything there. When I make this again, I will omit the water. Even after patting it dry, the ham steak gave off enough liquid during initial cooking process to make up half cup per recipe. This recipe will now be my go-to. And I am giving a shout out to Cooks brand ham. The best.
Hello Erin! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. Kelly
I made this tonight. The flavor was amazing! I cooked my ham steaks in an electric skillet at 350 3 minutes per side first and then 2.5 minutes per side with the sauce. What can I do next time to where the ham won’t be so dry and tough?
Hello Beth! I’m so surprised your ham was dry and tough. I’ve never had one turn out that way. I would buy a different brand of ham to start with to see if that is problem. – Kelly
Oh nom nom!! Thank you for this easy delicious recipe!
You are very welcome Kim! I’m glad you enjoyed it. – Kelly
No matter how I cook a ham steak it always comes out tough and chewy. What can I do to create a more tender ham steak?
Hello Pam! Ham steak becomes tough when it’s overcooked. I hope that helps! Kelly
I just made this for my husband and he loved it!!!!! I arranged it in around plate alternating between hash brown patties and the ham slices and then drizzled the glaze over top! Well, let me tell you, Mama’s getting lucky tonight😎
Hello Zeva! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Fun benefits to cooking to be had! 🙂 – Kelly
made this tonight, the glaze didn’t caramelize but it was still tasty. seemed there was too much liquid and even cooking the glaze for 5 minutes on med/high it didn’t thicken
This was absolutely delicious. The very best way to make a ham steak.
Hello Carol! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate it! Kelly
I have NEVER purchased a ham slice. I just do not especially like the taste. But I found a marked down slice for under $3 that had to be cooked very soon. I researched how to cook the slice and printed the recipe for the Old-Fashioned Skillet Country Ham Steak . I had all of the ingredients and the instructions were extremely simple.
I CAN NOT BELIEVE how excellent the taste was !!!!!! My husband ate 90% of the ham (which never happens) and asked me if I would cook it again. YES I WILL !!!! And it is all because of (1) browning the ham & (2) the sweet caramelized glaze. Beyond Excellent
Hello Elizabeth! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you so much for letting me know. Your comment made my day! – Kelly
Hi, I am going to try your Brown Sugar Ham Steak recipe this weekend. You suggest green beans as a side with a yummy picture but no link to a recipe. My garden produced an abundance of green beans and tomatoes (the pic looks like bits of tomatoes). Where can I find that green bean recipe?
Hello Teresa! I haven’t put one up yet. I’m sorry. I also love Mac and cheese with ham steak too. I will get one up soon. – Kelly
This was very good, despite a couple of mistakes I made – leaving out the water for one 🙁 .. but still a great flavor and coated the ham very nicely. Also I overcooked my ham slice while trying to brown it… and reminded myself that my 2 go-to skillet is not very good at browning things. Definitely need to purchase a 2nd skillet, and would definitely make this recipe again! Thank you 🙂
Hello MB! I’m so glad you liked the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate it. – Kelly
Hi, I had been making it every weekend, and have some family visiting from Peru that they loved
My husband never likes any meat with sugar, honestly never complaint and asked for more!
Today Sunday 4/3/3024 making it again I loved
Thanks so much
You are very welcome Martha! Thank you so much for letting me know. – Kelly
Why do people post their recipes on Pinterest but don’t let you save them to Pinterest? I hate that!
You can pin this recipe to Pinterest. I made a pin for it – just hover over it and the Pinterest button will show up. – Kelly
I make brown sugar baked ham for holidays but this year my spouse and I were by ourselves. I want that taste but in a smaller quantity. This recipe is it. The ham was ” to die for” good. I plan to use this recipe again real soon. Thank you.
Hello Sam! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. – Kelly
Serve with candied yams, Mac and cheese, and fried okra! Wonderful!
I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate it! – Kelly
Great! Quick ,easy, hubby loved it! Will make many times again. Thank You!
Hello Kay! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you so much for letting me know. – Kelly
I got a few ham streak’s last minute from a friend who raises her own pigs. Found this recipe and made it exactly as written. This recipe is AMAZING. don’t change a thing, best I’ve ever had!!! Fry it up in the cast iron to really get a nice brown on the streaks. I was eating it as it was coming out of the pan it was that good!
I’m so glad you loved the recipe! I love it so much too. I appreciate you letting me know. – Kelly
Fixed this for New Year’s Eve dinner with uncured smoked ham steak, and Hubby raved over it. Used Truvia brown sugar blend and smoked paprika with the Dijon mustard in the glaze, yum. I’d like to try it with a spicy brown mustard in place of the Dijon because I think the flavor contrast would be even better. Thanks for a great recipe!
You are very welcome! I’m so glad your hubby loved the recipe. I’ll let my mom know, it’s her recipe. – Kelly
Delicious! My husband wants me to use this recipe from now on.
I’m so glad you loved it! Try my slow cooker ham and bean soup next. You’ll love it. Thank you for letting me know. – Kelly
Could I serve this for Easter dinner in place of a spiral ham?
You could! It doesn’t serve very many people, but it’s perfect for two or three people. – Kelly
This was really good
I’m so glad you liked the recipe Joanne! Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate the feedback. – Kelly
I haven’t tried yet but will give it 5 stars, but I am looking for a fork and butter knife tenderness. Is it tender or more chewy? Thank you.
You can definitely cut it with a butter knife. I hope that helps. – Kelly
We loved this recipe! Glaze was perfect.Ham was tender. I used less dijon mustard.
Thank you.
You’re very welcome Debra! I’m so glad you loved it. Thank you for letting me know. – Kelly
Love this recipe. There’s something special about old-fashioned dishes that are passed down through families and communities.
Real experiences and personal stories are what make these traditions valuable. The same idea applies online—authentic communities built around real people’s experiences can be incredibly helpful, whether it’s sharing recipes or making informed choices in everyday life.
Well said. I love that you wrote in and told me that. I’m so glad you liked the recipe. Thank you for letting me know. – Kelly