Island Style Ham & Sweet Potatoes
Description
This comforting Island Style Ham & Sweet Potatoes dish combines the earthy sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a tangy, tropical ham mixture. The base is rich and fluffy, whipped with butter and a hint of nutmeg for warmth. Topped with sauted ham, green peppers, and pineapple chunks simmered in a brown sugar and vinegar glaze, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck contribution, this recipe is simple to assemble yet feels special enough for a holiday table. The contrasting textures of the smooth mash and the chunky topping make every bite satisfying.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
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Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Cook in boiling salted water until tender, then drain well.
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Mash the cooked sweet potatoes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Add enough milk to create a smooth, fluffy consistency. Set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped ham and saut until lightly browned.
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Add the green pepper (or pimento) strips and drained pineapple chunks to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, pineapple juice, and vinegar until smooth.
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Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the ham and pineapple. Stir constantly and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes clear.
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Pour the ham and pineapple mixture into a 9-inch pie plate or casserole dish.
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Drop spoonfuls of the mashed sweet potatoes on top of the ham mixture, distributing them evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are hot and the filling is bubbly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 152.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.7g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.8g4%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2537.5mg106%
- Total Carbohydrate 30.1g11%
- Dietary Fiber 4.5g18%
- Sugars 6.3g
- Protein 2.4g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The original recipe lists "Nutmeg Milk" in the ingredients list but describes adding milk and nutmeg separately in the directions. We have clarified this to mean adding milk and nutmeg to taste when mashing the potatoes.
If using fresh pineapple, ensure it is cooked thoroughly to remove any tough texture. Canned pineapple is recommended for ease and consistent sweetness.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the ham mixture.
This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
