Table of Contents

Ham Steak With Apple Stuffing: A Taste of Autumn Comfort

There’s a particular scent that always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen: the sweet, slightly tart aroma of apples mingling with savory spices. It was the unmistakable smell of her apple stuffing, a dish she’d often nestle between two thick-cut ham steaks. I remember being a little girl, perched on a stool, watching her carefully layer the ingredients, each movement filled with love and purpose. This recipe is an ode to her, a way to keep those warm, comforting memories alive with every bite.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

2 tablespoons chopped celery
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups toasted bread cubes or 2 cups croutons
2 tablespoons minced onions
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons water
1 cup diced apple
2 lbs ham steaks, of approximate equal size
8-10 whole cloves
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Greased baking dish
Cup

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This is crucial for ensuring the stuffing cooks evenly and the ham stays moist.
Next, prepare the apple stuffing. In a medium saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of chopped celery and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The celery should be tender but not browned.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the following ingredients to the softened celery and butter mixture: 2 cups of toasted bread cubes (or croutons), 2 tablespoons of minced onions, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of poultry seasoning, 1/8 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons of water, and 1 cup of diced apple. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. This is your apple stuffing!
In a separate cup, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. This mixture will be used for basting the ham as it bakes, adding a touch of sweetness and keeping it moist. Set this basting sauce aside.
Prepare the ham steaks. Use a sharp knife to slash the fat around the edge of each steak. This prevents the ham from curling up during baking and allows the flavors to penetrate better.
Place one of the ham steaks in a greased baking dish. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate both steaks without overcrowding.
Spread the prepared apple stuffing evenly over the ham steak in the baking dish.
Top the stuffing with the remaining ham steak, creating a sandwich-like structure.
Now, take the whole cloves and stud the fat around the edge of the top ham steak. Space the cloves approximately 1 to 1-1/2 inches apart. This adds a beautiful aromatic element and enhances the overall presentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1-1/4 hours, or until the ham is cooked through and the stuffing is heated and lightly browned.
During the baking process, baste the ham with the orange juice/butter mixture 3 or 4 times. This ensures that the ham remains moist and develops a lovely glaze. Start basting about halfway through the cooking time.
To check for doneness, the internal temperature of the ham should reach 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to verify.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Bread Choice: For the stuffing, use a slightly stale bread for the best texture. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Sodium Control: Ham is naturally salty. To control the sodium level, use unsalted croutons or homemade bread cubes with little to no salt added.
Make-Ahead Tip: The stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This saves time on the day of cooking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before stuffing the ham.
Basting is Key: Don’t skip the basting! It’s crucial for keeping the ham moist and flavorful.
Broiler Boost: For the last few minutes of cooking, you can broil the ham briefly to caramelize the top and create a beautiful golden-brown crust. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the ham steak hot, sliced, and with a generous portion of the apple stuffing. It pairs well with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans, or a simple side salad.

For leftovers, store the ham and stuffing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the ham and stuffing from drying out. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the stuffing may change.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	422 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	18.9g	29%
Saturated Fat	8.9g	44%
Cholesterol	125mg	41%
Sodium	3207.7mg	133%
Total Carbohydrate	14.7g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1.3g	5%
Sugars	4.9g	N/A
Protein	46g	92%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or croutons for a gluten-free version of the stuffing.
Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits in the stuffing. Dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or pears would all be delicious additions.
Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like sage or thyme to the stuffing for a more aromatic flavor.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with thick slices of roasted butternut squash or portobello mushrooms.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different types of bread for the stuffing?
A: Absolutely! Sourdough, challah, or even cornbread can add unique flavors and textures to the stuffing.

Q: How can I prevent the ham from drying out during baking?
A: Basting the ham with the orange juice and butter mixture is key to keeping it moist. You can also add a cup of chicken broth to the bottom of the baking dish to create steam.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the ham and stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What temperature should the ham reach to be considered fully cooked?
A: The internal temperature of the ham should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
A: Definitely! Adding chopped carrots or mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrients to the stuffing.

Final Thoughts

This Ham Steak with Apple Stuffing is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to cherished memories and the simple joys of home cooking. I encourage you to give it a try, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and make it your own. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, I hope it brings as much warmth and happiness to your table as it does to mine. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how it turns out! Consider pairing this dish with a crisp apple cider or a light-bodied red wine for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ham Steak With Apple Stuffing Recipe