Authentic Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Sandwiches: A Steel City Classic
If you’ve never experienced a Pittsburgh ham BBQ sandwich, you’re in for a true Western Pennsylvania treat. This iconic Steel City comfort food features paper-thin chipped ham smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s simple to make but packed with nostalgic flavor.
These beloved sandwiches feature the iconic “chipped chopped ham” that Pittsburghers have loved for generations. Unlike other BBQ styles, the Pittsburgh ham BBQ isn’t smoked or pulled – it’s thinly sliced deli ham transformed by a distinctive sweet-tangy sauce that locals crave. Perfect for feeding a crowd at picnics, game days, or casual family dinners!
What Makes Pittsburgh Ham BBQ So Special?
Unlike Southern BBQ traditions, Pittsburgh’s version doesn’t require hours of smoking or special equipment. The magic comes from the region’s signature “chipped ham” – deli ham sliced nearly paper-thin – combined with a distinctive sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and completely addictive.
These sandwiches have been a staple at Pittsburgh family gatherings, church socials, and Steelers game days for decades. Ask any Pittsburgh native about ham BBQ, and you’ll likely hear stories about neighborhood delis, family picnics, and the comfort of this simple yet beloved sandwich.
Ingredients for Classic Pittsburgh Ham BBQ
- 2 pounds chipped chopped ham (sliced extra thin at the deli counter)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 hamburger buns
- Optional: pickle slices for serving
Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Shopping Tip
Ask for “chipped ham” at your deli counter – request it sliced as thin as possible. If they’re unfamiliar with “chipped,” just ask for the thinnest possible slicing of regular deli ham. Isaly’s chipped ham is the authentic Pittsburgh choice if you can find it!
How to Make Authentic Pittsburgh Ham BBQ
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
- Add ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder to the melted butter. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the brown sugar has dissolved completely and the sauce has slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low. Add the thinly sliced chipped ham to the sauce, breaking apart the ham slices as you add them to ensure they’re not clumped together.
- Gently fold the ham into the sauce until every piece is coated. Continue cooking on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the ham and sauce mixture to a baking dish, cover with foil, and place in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- While the ham is in the oven, lightly toast the hamburger buns if desired.
- Remove the ham BBQ from the oven and serve generously on hamburger buns, adding pickle slices if desired.
Serving Suggestions for Pittsburgh Ham BBQ
- Classic Pittsburgh style: Serve with potato chips and a pickle on the side
- Picnic style: Pair with potato salad, coleslaw, or macaroni salad
- Game day spread: Include alongside pierogies and Iron City beer for a true Pittsburgh experience
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Pittsburgh ham BBQ actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop! Here’s how to make it ahead and store it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover ham BBQ in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer bags, remove excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the ham BBQ up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually intensify!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 526 kcal
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 69mg
Sodium: 2278mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 29g
FAQs About Pittsburgh Ham BBQ
What is “chipped ham” exactly?
Chipped ham is a Pittsburgh specialty popularized by Isaly’s, a local chain. It’s deli ham sliced extremely thin (paper-thin) on a meat slicer, giving it a unique texture perfect for soaking up the BBQ sauce.
Can I use regular sliced ham if I can’t find chipped ham?
Yes! Ask your deli counter to slice ham as thinly as possible. You can also roughly chop regular sliced ham to create a similar texture.
Is Pittsburgh ham BBQ the same as pulled pork BBQ?
No, they’re completely different. Pittsburgh ham BBQ uses thinly sliced deli ham in a sweet-tangy sauce, while pulled pork is slow-cooked pork shoulder that’s shredded.
What sides go best with Pittsburgh ham BBQ?
Traditional Pittsburgh sides include potato chips, potato salad, macaroni salad, coleslaw, and pickles.
Why You’ll Love This Pittsburgh Ham BBQ Recipe
There’s something nostalgically satisfying about a well-made Pittsburgh ham BBQ sandwich. The combination of the paper-thin ham with the sweet-tangy sauce creates a uniquely comforting flavor that’s greater than the sum of its simple parts. Whether you’re a Pittsburgh native missing a taste of home or discovering this regional specialty for the first time, this recipe delivers authentic Steel City flavor in every bite!
Recipe adapted from: AllRecipes