Pittsburgh BBQ Ham Sandwiches: A Mouthwatering Classic Ham Recipe

Sweet and Tangy BBQ Ham Sandwiches: Pittsburgh-Style

Looking for the perfect bbq ham recipe that combines sweet, tangy flavors with tender slices of ham? These Pittsburgh-style BBQ ham sandwiches are exactly what you need! This iconic sandwich features paper-thin sliced ham smothered in a homemade barbecue sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Ham Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about these Pittsburgh-style ham barbecues. The thinly sliced ham soaks up the sweet, tangy sauce, creating a sandwich that’s both familiar and exciting. Perfect for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or potluck parties!

Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Ham Sandwiches

• 2 pounds thinly sliced deli ham (chipped chopped ham if available)
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup ketchup
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 8 hamburger buns
• Pickle slices for serving (optional)
• Coleslaw for serving (optional)

How to Make BBQ Ham Sandwiches: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder to the melted butter. Stir to combine thoroughly.
4. Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Add the thinly sliced ham to the sauce, gently folding it in to ensure all pieces are coated evenly.
6. Allow the ham to simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Transfer the ham and sauce mixture to a baking dish.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. While the ham is baking, lightly toast your hamburger buns if desired.
10. Spoon the hot ham mixture onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns, add pickle slices or coleslaw if using, then top with the other half of the bun.

Tips for the Best BBQ Ham Results

• Ham Selection: For authentic Pittsburgh-style, look for “chipped chopped ham” at your deli counter. If unavailable, ask for the thinnest possible slices of regular deli ham.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Make Ahead: The sauce and ham mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. Simply reheat before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: These sandwiches pair wonderfully with potato salad, baked beans, or potato chips for a complete meal.

Variations on the Classic BBQ Ham Recipe

• Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give your BBQ ham a kick.
• Smoky Flavor: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke or ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Honey BBQ: Replace half the brown sugar with honey for a different sweet note.
• Pineapple BBQ Ham: Add ¼ cup of crushed pineapple and its juice to the sauce for a tropical twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This bbq ham recipe makes excellent leftovers! Store any remaining ham mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often get even better the next day!

Why This BBQ Ham Recipe Will Become a Family Favorite

These Pittsburgh-style BBQ ham sandwiches bring together simple ingredients to create a meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The combination of thinly sliced ham with the sweet and tangy sauce creates sandwiches that are comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy crowd-pleaser, this bbq ham recipe is sure to satisfy.

Recipe adapted from Pittsburgh Ham Barbecues on Allrecipes