There are days when supper needs to be simple, filling, and dependable, and that is exactly where these slow cooker ham steaks shine. This is the kind of practical country cooking that makes good use of what is already in the freezer, turning just a handful of pantry ingredients into a sweet-and-savory main dish with hardly any fuss. Ham and fruit glazes have long had a place on Midwestern tables, especially when feeding family without spending all afternoon at the stove, and this version keeps that old-fashioned goodness in an easy slow cooker form.
Serve these tender ham steaks with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice to catch the extra sauce. A side of green beans, glazed carrots, or simple corn makes the plate feel complete, and a pan of warm biscuits or cornbread is mighty welcome for sopping up every last bit of the pineapple-brown sugar juices.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Ham Steaks
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 frozen ham steaks, about 8 ounces each
Directions
1. Place the frozen ham steaks in the bottom of the slow cooker, overlapping them slightly if needed.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and yellow mustard, then spoon the mixture over the ham steaks.
3. Pour the pineapple slices and all the juice over and around the ham.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the ham is hot and tender and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
5. Spoon some of the sauce over the ham before serving, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Variations & Tips
Sweeter glaze: If your family likes a sweeter ham, add an extra tablespoon or two of brown sugar. The pineapple and sugar melt together into a lovely old-fashioned glaze.
Pantry shortcut: If all you have is crushed pineapple or pineapple chunks, those work just fine. The finished dish will look a little different, but the flavor will still be just right.
Keep an eye on the salt: Ham steaks can vary quite a bit in saltiness depending on the brand, so there is no need to add extra salt here. Taste the sauce at the end if you like, but most times it is plenty seasoned already.
Easy serving tip: For a heartier supper, lay each ham steak over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice and spoon the warm sauce over the top. It stretches the meal nicely and makes every bite especially comforting.
