By Chef Emma Turner
When it comes to a simple yet satisfying meal, Easy Baked Ham Steaks are a timeless classic. These flavorful and juicy ham steaks are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious meal that the whole family will love. In this article, I'll share with you a recipe for Easy Baked Ham Steaks along with five cooking tips to ensure a fantastic result. Let's get started!
Ingredients
- - 2 ham steaks, approximately 1/2 inch thick
- - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- - 2 tablespoons honey
- - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- - 1 teaspoon paprika
- - Optional: pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, or other desired toppings
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Place the ham steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, brown sugar, and paprika until well combined.
- 4. Brush the mixture generously over both sides of the ham steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- 5. If desired, top the ham steaks with pineapple rings or maraschino cherries for added flavor and presentation.
- 6. Bake the ham steaks in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and the glaze has caramelized.
- 7. Remove the ham steaks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- 8. Serve the Easy Baked Ham Steaks hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips
1. Choose the right ham steaks: Look for pre-sliced ham steaks that are approximately 1/2 inch thick. This thickness ensures that the steaks cook evenly and retain their juiciness.
2. Enhance the flavor with glaze variations: While the recipe calls for a Dijon mustard and honey glaze, feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can try a maple glaze, a brown sugar and mustard glaze, or even a pineapple juice and brown sugar glaze for a tropical twist.
3. Score the ham steaks: Before applying the glaze, score the surface of the ham steaks with shallow cuts. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor.
4. Monitor the cooking time: Keep a close eye on the ham steaks while they're in the oven to prevent overcooking. Since they are pre-cooked, they only need to be heated through. Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat.
5. Get creative with toppings: While the ham steaks are delicious on their own, you can add toppings like pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, or even a sprinkle of chopped herbs for added visual appeal and flavor.
Specialty and Nutritional Properties
The specialty of Easy Baked Ham Steaks lies in their simplicity and versatility. These ham steaks are a quick and effortless way to enjoy the rich flavors of ham without the need for a whole roasted ham. They are perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or even as a centerpiece for brunch.
From a nutritional standpoint, ham steaks are a good source of protein and provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. However, ham can be high in sodium, so it's important to choose low-sodium options if you're watching your sodium intake. So, next time you're looking for an easy and flavorful meal, give Easy Baked Ham Steaks a try. With their tender texture and delicious glaze, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
