Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts

Honestly, this Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts recipe has become a weeknight staple in our home, and for good reason! Initially, I was a bit skeptical – Brussels sprouts have a reputation, right? But the magic of balsamic glaze transforming them into slightly caramelized, tender bites, paired with the savory richness of ham, is simply incredible. My kids, who used to turn their noses up at anything green, now actually ask for “those little cabbages” when I mention this dish. The sweet and tangy balsamic perfectly complements the salty ham, creating a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and comforting. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. If you’re looking for a flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the delicious harmony of balsamic ham and Brussels sprouts yourself!

Ingredients

• Brussels Sprouts: 1.5 lbs, fresh, trimmed and halved. Fresh Brussels sprouts are crucial for the best texture and flavor in this recipe. Frozen sprouts can become mushy. Halving them ensures even cooking and allows them to caramelize beautifully.
• Boneless Ham Steak: 1.5 lbs, about 1-inch thick. A boneless ham steak cooks quickly and evenly. You can find these pre-cut in most grocery stores. Look for one that’s not overly processed for the best flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: ½ cup, store-bought or homemade. Balsamic glaze is the star of the show, providing a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory ham and Brussels sprouts. High-quality balsamic glaze will have a rich, complex flavor. If making your own, reduce balsamic vinegar until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, extra virgin. Olive oil is essential for roasting and searing, preventing sticking and adding a subtle fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior taste and health benefits.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds a pungent and aromatic depth of flavor to the dish. Mincing it releases its oils and allows it to infuse the Brussels sprouts and ham as they cook.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and is crucial for seasoning the Brussels sprouts and ham. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best taste.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity to the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste. For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes can be added. They provide a subtle kick that complements the sweetness of the balsamic and the savory ham.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is preheating, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Wash them thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry. Trim off the hard ends and any yellow or wilted outer leaves. Halve the Brussels sprouts lengthwise. This ensures they cook evenly and allows the cut sides to caramelize beautifully in the oven.
2. Season the Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper (and red pepper flakes, if using). Ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This helps them roast properly and develop flavor. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan as this will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
3. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Place the baking sheet with Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. Roasting at a high temperature allows the Brussels sprouts to become tender on the inside and slightly crispy and caramelized on the outside. After 20 minutes, check the Brussels sprouts. They should be starting to soften and brown slightly.
4. Sear the Ham Steak: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the ham steak. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the ham steak in the skillet. Sear the ham steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is nicely browned and heated through. Searing the ham adds a delicious caramelized crust and enhances its flavor. Be careful not to overcook the ham, as it can become dry.
5. Add Ham to Brussels Sprouts and Bake: After searing the ham, remove the baking sheet with Brussels sprouts from the oven. Create some space in the center of the baking sheet and place the seared ham steak amongst the Brussels sprouts. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly browned and the ham is heated through. The Brussels sprouts should be easily pierced with a fork.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Once the Brussels sprouts and ham are cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Generously drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and ham. Ensure the glaze coats everything nicely. The heat from the vegetables and ham will warm the glaze and make it even more flavorful.
7. Serve Immediately: Transfer the Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately while it’s hot and the Brussels sprouts are still slightly crispy and the balsamic glaze is glistening. Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate, based on 4 servings)

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately)
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brand ingredients.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes washing and trimming Brussels sprouts, halving them, mincing garlic, and seasoning the vegetables. It also includes quickly preparing the ham steak for searing.
• Cook Time: 35 minutes. This includes 20 minutes of roasting Brussels sprouts alone, searing the ham for about 8 minutes total, and then baking ham and sprouts together for another 10-15 minutes.
• Total Time: 50 minutes. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful and healthy meal on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

How to Serve Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts

This Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts is delicious as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with various side dishes to create a more substantial and balanced dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Main Course:
  • Simply as is: Enjoy it as a flavorful and relatively light main course. The ham provides protein, and the Brussels sprouts offer fiber and nutrients.
  • With a Grain: Serve over a bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to add complex carbohydrates and make it a more filling meal. The grains will soak up the delicious balsamic glaze.
  • Alongside Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and classic pairing with the savory ham and Brussels sprouts. Sweet potato mash would also complement the balsamic flavors beautifully.
• As a Side Dish:
  • For Holiday Dinners: This dish is elegant enough to be a standout side dish for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. It pairs well with roasted turkey, chicken, or beef.
  • With Roasted Chicken or Pork: Serve alongside roasted chicken thighs, a pork tenderloin, or even grilled sausages for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Vegetarian Option Accompaniment: While this recipe includes ham, for a mixed table, it can serve as a flavorful vegetable side dish if you are also offering a vegetarian main course.
• Garnishing Ideas:
  • Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  • Toasted Pine Nuts or Almonds: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  • Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy element that complements the balsamic and savory flavors.
  • Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest brightens the dish and adds a fresh citrus note.

Additional Tips for Perfect Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts

1. Choose Fresh, Firm Brussels Sprouts: Select Brussels sprouts that are firm, tightly closed, and bright green. Avoid sprouts that are yellowing or have wilted leaves. Fresh sprouts will roast best and have the most appealing texture and flavor.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of roast, resulting in mushy sprouts instead of crispy and caramelized ones. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
3. Preheat the Skillet for Searing Ham: Make sure the skillet is properly heated before adding the ham steak. A hot skillet is crucial for achieving a good sear and caramelized crust on the ham. You should hear a sizzle when the ham hits the pan.
4. Adjust Balsamic Glaze to Your Taste: The sweetness and tanginess of balsamic glaze can vary. Taste your glaze and adjust the amount you use according to your preference. You can always add more after cooking if needed. For a less sweet version, use a thicker, more reduced balsamic glaze.
5. Experiment with Different Ham Types: While a boneless ham steak is recommended for this recipe, you can also use other types of cooked ham, such as leftover holiday ham cut into cubes or slices. Adjust cooking time accordingly to just heat the ham through.
6. Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to roast along with the Brussels sprouts. Red onions, carrots, bell peppers, or butternut squash would all pair well and add extra flavor and nutrients. Adjust roasting time based on the density of the vegetables you add.
7. Make it Vegetarian (or Vegan): To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ham. For a vegan version, omit the ham and ensure your balsamic glaze is vegan-friendly (some might contain honey). You can add roasted chickpeas or white beans for protein if desired.
8. Store Leftovers Properly: Store leftover Balsamic Ham with Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. The Brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispness upon reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
A1: While fresh Brussels sprouts are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts in a pinch. However, they tend to release more moisture and may become mushier. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them very dry before roasting. You might also need to roast them for a slightly longer time to achieve some caramelization.

Q2: I don’t have balsamic glaze, can I use balsamic vinegar instead?
A2: Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar, but you will need to reduce it to create a glaze-like consistency. To do this, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A3: You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and ham ahead of time, but it’s best to roast and sear them just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and mince the garlic a few hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also sear the ham steak a little ahead and then just reheat it in the oven with the Brussels sprouts.

Q4: What if I don’t like garlic? Can I omit it?
A4: Yes, you can omit the garlic if you don’t like it. The recipe will still be flavorful with just the olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic glaze. However, garlic does add a nice depth of flavor. You could also try using a milder alternative like shallots.

Q5: How can I make sure my Brussels sprouts are not bitter?
A5: Roasting at a high temperature and ensuring they are properly caramelized can help reduce any bitterness in Brussels sprouts. Also, avoid overcooking them, as this can enhance bitterness. Fresh, young Brussels sprouts tend to be less bitter than older, larger ones.

Q6: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A6: Yes, cheese can be a delicious addition! Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even Parmesan cheese would pair well with the balsamic ham and Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle it over the dish in the last few minutes of baking or just before serving.

Q7: What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?
A7: This dish pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, couscous, roasted sweet potatoes, a simple green salad, or crusty bread. See the “How to Serve” section for more detailed suggestions.

Q8: Can I grill the ham instead of searing it in a skillet?
A8: Yes, grilling the ham is a great option, especially during warmer months. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the ham steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely grilled and heated through. Grilling will impart a smoky flavor that complements the balsamic and Brussels sprouts beautifully. You can then add the grilled ham to the roasted Brussels sprouts as instructed in the recipe.

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