Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Garlic Glaze
Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Garlic Glaze (Easy Skillet Recipe)
If you’re looking for an easy ham steak recipe that’s packed with flavor, this Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Garlic Glaze is sure to become a family favorite.
Thick slices of fully cooked ham are seared in a hot skillet until lightly caramelized, then coated in a rich homemade glaze made with butter, brown sugar, honey, fresh garlic, and a splash of water. As the glaze simmers, it thickens into a sweet, buttery sauce that perfectly coats every bite of ham.
This skillet ham steak is ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. Pair it with mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, roasted vegetables, green beans, or dinner rolls for a comforting meal that’s simple enough for busy evenings but special enough for Sunday dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a new way to serve ham, this ham steak with brown sugar glaze is one recipe you’ll make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Ham Steak Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Sweet and savory brown sugar garlic glaze
- Cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Great for holiday leftovers
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham steak (about 1 to 1½ pounds)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Garlic Glaze
Step 1
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Step 2
Add the ham steak to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until lightly browned and caramelized.
Step 3
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the water, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard (if using), black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves and the glaze begins to bubble.
Step 5
Continue simmering the glaze for 5 to 7 minutes, turning the ham steak occasionally and spooning the glaze over the top. As the sauce cooks, it will reduce into a rich, glossy brown sugar garlic glaze that coats the ham beautifully.
Step 6
Transfer the ham steak to a serving platter and spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Ham Steak
- Choose a thick-cut ham steak for the juiciest results.
- Don’t overcook the ham since it’s already fully cooked.
- Spoon the glaze over the ham as it simmers to build flavor.
- Let the glaze reduce until it’s thick and glossy.
- Fresh garlic gives the glaze the best flavor.
Variations
- Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Steak
- Maple Garlic Ham Steak
- Honey Mustard Ham Steak
- Orange Glazed Ham Steak
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Ham Steak
- Spicy Honey Garlic Ham Steak
- Apple Butter Glazed Ham Steak
What to Serve with Ham Steak
This ham steak with brown sugar garlic glaze pairs perfectly with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese
- Green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Corn casserole
- Buttery dinner rolls
- Fried potatoes
- Rice pilaf
- Southern-style collard greens
Storage
Store leftover ham steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze Ham Steak?
Yes! Place the cooled ham steak and glaze in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ham steak already cooked?
Yes. Most ham steaks sold at the grocery store are fully cooked and simply need to be reheated while the glaze develops.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The brown sugar garlic glaze can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before adding it to the skillet.
Can I bake ham steak instead?
Yes. Place the ham steak in a baking dish, pour the glaze over the top, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through.
More Ham Recipes You’ll Love
If you love easy ham dinners, be sure to try my Ham Glaze Recipe, Ham Sauce, Ham and Potato Casserole, Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, Ham Fried Rice, Ham and Bean Soup, Breakfast Casseroles, and Easy Skillet Dinner Recipes for more family-favorite meals.
