Ham steak is a wonderfully versatile and flavorful cut of meat that can make for a quick, satisfying meal any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, ham steak is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of sides. If you’ve ever wondered how do you cook ham steak perfectly, this guide will walk you through the best methods, tips, and tasty glaze ideas to elevate your ham steak dinner.
What Is a Ham Steak?
A ham steak is a slice cut from a whole ham, usually from the hind leg of a pig. It is typically fully cooked and smoked, meaning it just needs to be heated through before eating. Ham steaks are thicker than deli ham slices but thinner than a full ham roast, making them ideal for quick cooking.
How to Cook Ham Steak: Basic Methods
1. Pan-Frying Ham Steak
Pan-frying is the most popular method because it’s fast and easy.
– Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
– Place the ham steak in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on one side.
– Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the edges are browned and the steak is heated through.
– Optional: Spoon a glaze or sauce over the steak in the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.
2. Baking Ham Steak in the Oven
Baking is a great hands-off method, especially if you want to cook multiple steaks at once.
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Place the ham steak on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
– Brush the steak with a glaze or simply butter.
– Bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through (internal temperature around 165°F).
– For thicker or frozen steaks, baking time may be up to 45 minutes.
3. Grilling Ham Steak
Grilling adds a smoky char and caramelization.
– Preheat your grill to medium heat.
– Lightly oil the grill grates.
– Grill the ham steak for about 4-5 minutes per side until warmed and grill marks appear.
– Brush with glaze during the last few minutes if desired.
Delicious Glaze Ideas for Ham Steak
Adding a glaze can transform a simple ham steak into a mouthwatering dish.
Brown Sugar and Maple Glaze
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Melt butter in a skillet, cook ham steak, then add glaze ingredients to the pan. Stir until sugar dissolves and spoon over the steak.
Classic Sweet and Tangy Glaze
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– A pinch of garlic powder and ground cloves
Combine ingredients and brush over ham steaks before baking or pan-frying. Cook until glaze thickens and caramelizes.
Simple Butter and Mustard Glaze
Melt butter and mix with Dijon mustard for a quick, tangy glaze that complements the smoky flavor of ham.
Tips for Perfect Ham Steak Every Time
– Let it rest: Allow your ham steak to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating.
– Don’t overcook: Since ham steak is already cooked, you only need to heat it through. Overcooking can dry it out.
– Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s hot and safe to eat, especially if it was frozen.
– Freeze for later: Ham steaks freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
– Pair with sides: Serve with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Pan-Fried Ham Steak with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Melt ½ tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add an 8-ounce ham steak and cook for 4 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove ham steak and cover to keep warm.
- Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to the skillet.
- Stir until sugar dissolves (about 30 seconds).
- Spoon glaze over ham steak and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Ham steak pairs beautifully with:
– Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
– Steamed green beans or asparagus
– Macaroni and cheese
– Fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast
Variations and Substitutions
If ham steak isn’t available, pork tenderloin can be a good substitute for similar recipes, especially when using glazes. You can also experiment with different glazes, such as honey mustard, pineapple, or bourbon-based sauces, to suit your taste.
Ham steak is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting weekend meal. With simple cooking methods and delicious glazes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked ham steak!