If you’re craving a ham dish that’s bursting with sweet, tangy, and rich flavors yet comes together in a snap, the Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe is your new go-to. This recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a tender, juicy ham infused with the tropical brightness of pineapple and the deep caramel notes of brown sugar. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or a midweek family dinner, this recipe delivers a spectacularly easy way to elevate your meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious meal. Each of these items plays a key role in building the unforgettable flavor and texture of this ham recipe.
- 3-4 pounds boneless sliced ham: Choose a quality ham to ensure tenderness; slicing allows quick and even cooking in the Instant Pot.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a beautiful caramel sweetness that balances the savory ham perfectly.
- 20 ounces pineapple slices in 100% juice (1 can): Provides juicy acidity and fruity brightness that tenderizes and flavors the meat.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the cooking liquid into a luscious glaze that coats the ham beautifully.
- ½ cup water: The cooking base that generates the steam needed for pressure cooking.
How to Make Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Start by pouring ½ cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot; this is crucial for creating the steam that cooks the ham evenly and keeps it juicy. Place the trivet into the pot so your ham sits above the liquid and doesn’t boil away its deliciousness.
Step 2: Add the Ham and Brown Sugar
Place your sliced ham on the trivet, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly on top. This simple step infuses the ham with a caramelized coat as it cooks, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Step 3: Incorporate the Pineapple
Arrange the pineapple slices directly into the Instant Pot around and on top of the ham, then pour the pineapple juice over everything. This mixture not only moistens the ham but also brings that perfect tropical tang everyone loves.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ham
Secure the lid and make sure the valve is set to the “sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Pressure cooking locks in the juice and tenderizes the meat quickly, cutting down on prep and cook time without sacrificing flavor.
Step 5: Release the Pressure
When the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 5 minutes. Then carefully switch the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure safely. This gradual release helps the ham retain its moisture and tenderness.
Step 6: Make the Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze (Optional)
For a glossy, flavorful finish, remove the ham and pineapple and switch the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Whisk in 2 teaspoons of cornstarch into the cooking liquid and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened into a beautiful glaze that clings to the ham.
Step 7: Serve Your Ham
Place the ham on a serving platter with the pineapple slices arranged on top or alongside. Drizzle the warm pineapple brown sugar glaze over everything for a stunning and delicious presentation. Your Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe
Garnishes
A few fresh garnishes can really lift this dish’s presentation and flavor. Try some chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or sliced green onions can add wonderful texture and contrast.
Side Dishes
This ham pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a vibrant green bean almondine. For something lighter, a crisp garden salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the rich and sweet flavors of the ham perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this comforting meal into a showstopper by serving the ham on a wooden board surrounded by the pineapple slices and a bowl of extra glaze for dipping. You can even slice the ham thick and use it for sliders topped with fresh pineapple rings and crunchy coleslaw for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the pineapple and glaze separate to maintain their textures and flavors when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this ham freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your ham gently in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave on low power to retain moistness. Warm the glaze separately and drizzle over just before serving to refresh every bite.
FAQs
Can I use a bone-in ham for this Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe?
Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through. Bone-in hams tend to stay moist and flavorful, but sliced boneless ham will cook faster and is easier to serve.
Is this ham recipe very sweet?
The combination of brown sugar and pineapple adds a gentle sweetness that complements the savory ham without overpowering it. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly or use fresh pineapple for a milder flavor.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, just make sure your Instant Pot can fit the increased quantity without overfilling. Cooking times may need slight adjustment depending on how much ham you use.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice on hand?
You can use fresh pineapple blended with a bit of water, or even a splash of apple juice as a substitute. The key is to provide enough liquid for pressure cooking as well as that fruity acidity.
Can I make the glaze without cornstarch?
While cornstarch is great for thickening, you can simmer the cooking liquid longer to reduce it and create a natural glaze. Just watch carefully to avoid burning, and stir frequently.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way the pineapple and brown sugar meld together in the Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a fast track to a tender, flavorful ham that everyone will rave about. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your household!
Print
Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare a tender, juicy ham glazed with sweet pineapple and rich brown sugar. Perfect for a family dinner or holiday meal, this recipe uses the Instant Pot to pressure cook the ham in just 15 minutes, ensuring a moist, tender result with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Ham and Marinade
- 3–4 pounds boneless sliced ham
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 20 ounces pineapple slices in 100% juice (1 can)
- ½ cup water
Glaze (Optional)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour ½ cup water into your Instant Pot and place the metal trivet insert at the bottom to keep the ham elevated above the liquid.
- Arrange the Ham: Place the boneless sliced ham on the trivet, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top to begin creating the sweet glaze during cooking.
- Add Pineapple: Place the pineapple slices around and on top of the ham in the Instant Pot, then pour the pineapple juice from the can over the ham to infuse flavor and moisture while cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Securely attach the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to the “sealing” position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes to quickly tenderize the ham and blend the flavors.
- Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes to continue gentle cooking. Then carefully switch the valve to “venting” to manually release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
- Make Optional Glaze: Remove the ham and pineapple slices from the Instant Pot and set aside. Turn the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Whisk 2 teaspoons of cornstarch into the remaining liquid and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Slice and serve the ham immediately, topped with pineapple slices and drizzled with the luscious brown sugar pineapple glaze if desired.
Notes
- Use boneless sliced ham for best results and even cooking in the Instant Pot.
- You can adjust cooking time slightly depending on the thickness and size of the ham slices.
- For a richer glaze, add a little honey or mustard with the brown sugar before cooking.
- Make sure to allow natural pressure release first to keep the ham tender and juicy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently to retain moisture.
