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Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Steak Recipe for Perfect Caramelized Flavor

brown sugar glazed ham steak - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for a thick-cut ham steak glazed with a sweet and savory brown sugar mixture, delivering a perfectly caramelized and tender dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 thick-cut ham steak (about 8 oz / 225 g), preferably smoked
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • Β½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about β…› teaspoon)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or neutral oil

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon softened butter, Β½ teaspoon garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside.
  2. Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels. Lightly brush both sides with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil.
  3. Place your skillet over medium heat and let it warm for about 2 minutes until the oil shimmers but does not smoke.
  4. Carefully place the ham steak in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving it to form a golden crust.
  5. Turn the ham steak over and immediately spread half the glaze over the cooked side. Cook another 3-4 minutes until the glaze bubbles and thickens, watching closely to prevent burning.
  6. Flip the steak back, spread the remaining glaze on the other side, and cook for 2 more minutes until caramelized and glossy.
  7. Check that the ham is hot in the middle and has a caramelized crust. Lower heat if it starts to char.
  8. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the ham dry before cooking to ensure caramelization. Apply glaze in two coats to build a sticky, shiny surface without burning. Watch glaze closely as sugar can burn quickly. For gluten-free, verify ham and mustard labels. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine. If glaze thickens too fast, add a splash of water to loosen it.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham steak, brown sugar glaze, caramelized ham, quick dinner, savory glaze, easy recipe, weeknight meal