Quick & Easy Skillet Ham Slices With Cranberry-Ginger Sauce

The scent of ginger always brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She wasn’t a fancy cook, but she had a knack for turning simple ingredients into comforting meals. I remember one evening, the snow was falling outside, and she whipped up something similar to this skillet ham with cranberry sauce. The sweet-tart aroma filled the air, cutting through the winter chill. That night, nestled in her cozy kitchen, I learned that sometimes, the most cherished meals are the simplest ones. This recipe is my ode to those memories – quick, easy, and filled with warmth.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 2-3
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
• 1 (14 ounce) can whole cranberry sauce (can use jellied cranberry sauce but the whole is better)
• 1-2 green onion, chopped
• 2-3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 slices cooked ham (can use more)

Equipment Needed

• Skillet
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate the ham slices without overcrowding.
2. Add in the whole cranberry sauce, chopped green onions, water, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, ground ginger, and ground black pepper to the melted butter.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, mixing constantly to prevent sticking and ensure the brown sugar dissolves completely.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Taste the sauce and adjust the ginger, brown sugar, and pepper to your liking. Remember that the ham will also add saltiness to the dish, so be mindful of the balance. A touch more ginger will enhance the warmth, while more brown sugar will cater to those with a sweeter palate.
6. Add in the ham slices to the simmering sauce. Ensure the slices are submerged as much as possible in the sauce to allow them to absorb the flavors.
7. Cook the ham for 3-4 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until heated through and nicely glazed with the cranberry-ginger sauce. If you prefer a browned surface on the ham, you can sear the slices in the skillet for a minute or two per side before adding them to the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the ham, as it can become dry.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to the sauce while it simmers.
• Ginger Options: Freshly grated ginger can be used in place of ground ginger for a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger.
• Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin for your liking, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water while it’s simmering.
• Searing the Ham: If you decide to sear the ham before adding it to the sauce, use a separate pan or remove the sauce temporarily to ensure a good sear. High heat is key for a nice crust.
• Cranberry Sauce Variation: Use different varieties of cranberry sauce for unique flavors. Spiced cranberry sauce or cranberry sauce with orange zest will each add a distinct twist to the dish.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the skillet ham slices immediately while they’re hot and the sauce is still glistening. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus), or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added visual appeal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the ham and sauce in a skillet over low heat, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick during reheating. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cranberry sauce may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	402.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	82 g	21%
Total Fat	9.2 g	14%
Saturated Fat	5.5 g	27%
Cholesterol	22.9 mg	7%
Sodium	206.5 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	83.3 g	27%
Dietary Fiber	2.6 g	10%
Sugars	80 g	320%
Protein	1 g	2%

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

Variations & Substitutions

• Grape Jelly: As the original recipe mentioned, grape jelly can be used in place of cranberry sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an earthy, aromatic dimension.
• Different Protein: While this recipe calls for ham, you could substitute it with pork chops or chicken breasts for a different protein option. Just ensure that the protein is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use jellied cranberry sauce instead of whole cranberry sauce?
A: Yes, you can use jellied cranberry sauce, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Whole cranberry sauce provides a more robust texture and a slightly tart flavor.

Q: How can I prevent the sauce from sticking to the skillet?
A: Using a non-stick skillet and stirring the sauce frequently will help prevent sticking. You can also add a little extra butter or oil to the skillet.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat the sauce and add the ham slices. It’s best to add the ham just before serving to prevent it from drying out.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Gently reheat the ham and sauce in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy skillet ham with cranberry-ginger sauce is a delightful way to elevate a simple ham slice into a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a touch of comfort food. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the flavors and adjust the ingredients to suit your own preferences. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Please feel free to share your creations and feedback! Consider serving this alongside a crispy green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and balanced meal. Happy cooking!