Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in a flash? Then look no further! This oven-baked ham steak recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner. It's a simple dish that delivers big on taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this, and the results are restaurant-quality!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-inch thick) bone-in ham steak (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
Instructions:
Preparing the Ham Steak:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This simple step ensures your ham cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
-
Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a nice crust.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper. This creates a flavorful glaze that adds depth to the ham's natural taste.
Baking the Ham Steak:
-
Place the ham steak in a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish. This provides even heat distribution and prevents sticking.
-
Pour the glaze over the ham steak, ensuring it's evenly coated. A generous coating will result in a beautifully caramelized and flavorful finish.
-
Arrange the pineapple chunks on top of the ham steak. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory ham beautifully.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the doneness – this is crucial for food safety.
Serving Your Delicious Ham Steak:
-
Once cooked, remove the ham steak from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham steak.
-
Slice the ham steak and serve immediately. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Ham Steak:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in ham steaks tend to retain more moisture and have a richer flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked ham can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- Glaze Variations: Experiment with different glazes! Honey mustard, maple-bourbon, or even a simple brown sugar glaze all work wonderfully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy ham steak recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. It's a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on flavor or quality. Enjoy!