Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham and Sweet Potato Bake Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the best caramelization, make sure the sweet potatoes are in a single layer and not overcrowded. If the dish is too full, the ingredients will steam. Use a large baking dish and spread the cubes evenly. If you prefer a deeper caramel flavor, you can broil the dish for the last 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

This dish is forgiving—you can swap the pineapple for other fruits like peaches or mango. If using canned pineapple, use the juice from the can in the sauce instead of fresh pineapple juice.

The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Pineapple Ham Bake: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a minced jalapeño to the brown sugar sauce for a sweet-heat kick. The spice balances the sweetness and adds a new layer of flavor.
• Maple-Mustard Ham Bake: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard to the sauce. The mustard adds tang and depth, complementing the pineapple.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in 1 cup of cubed red bell pepper or 1/2 cup of diced red onion with the sweet potatoes. These vegetables roast well and add color and texture to the dish.
• Herbed Version: Stir 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary into the brown sugar sauce. The herbs add an earthy note that pairs well with the ham and sweet potatoes.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sweet potatoes will soften further as they sit, but the flavors will meld nicely.

Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. The sauce may thicken when chilled; add a splash of pineapple juice or water when reheating to loosen it.

This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the sweet potatoes, ham, and pineapple, and make the sauce. Combine everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate.

When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the cooking time since the dish will be cold. Alternatively, bake the dish fully and reheat it before serving.

Serving ideas

Serve this bake as a main dish with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad. The sweetness of the dish pairs well with tangy or acidic sides. For a more substantial meal, serve over rice or quinoa, letting the sauce soak into the grains. The dish is also a great addition to a brunch table, alongside eggs and toast.

For a holiday-style presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs before serving. The bright green adds a nice contrast to the golden dish.

This bake also works well as a side dish for roasted chicken or pork. Spoon the sauce over each portion for maximum flavor, and serve the dish straight from the baking dish for a rustic look.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham and Sweet Potato Bake

Prep 15 minCook 45 minTotal 1 hServes 6

Ingredients

• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 lb thick-cut ham steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (1-inch pieces)

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cubed sweet potatoes and ham in a large rectangular baking dish and toss to combine. Arrange them in an even layer, spreading to the edges.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and melted butter until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Drizzle the brown sugar sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes and ham. Scatter the pineapple chunks over the top, tucking some between the cubes.
4. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the edges are bubbling and caramelized. The ham is already cooked, so it just needs to heat through and absorb the glaze.
5. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly as it stands. Serve warm, spooning the sauce from the bottom of the dish over each portion.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

50 g

Fat

15 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.