Ham steaks, which are thick slices of ham, are a good choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You may become accustomed to the thinner version of cold cut ham primarily used for sandwiches. However, learning how to cook ham steaks at home provides you with an alternative food choice that combines the ham taste you love with the consistency and texture of a steak.

Purchase slices of ham steak from your local grocer or butcher. Ham steaks are dark pink in color and look similar to a beef steak. If you don't see them in the meat freezer, you may have to inquire. As meats are butchered, certain cuts are stored in alternate locations. Purchase one ham steak slice for each person you need to serve.

Use a damp paper towel to wash both sides of each ham steak. This removes any bacteria and even additional fat that the steaks may have come into contact with during the butchering process. It is preferable to use a paper towel instead of running the ham steaks under water because of the high fat content in the ham steaks. If there is excess water on the ham steaks when you place them on the grill or in the skillet, it could cause the fat and water mixture to splatter. Too much water could also cause the steaks to steam, which can alter the texture of the ham steak during the cooking process.

Preheat a nonstick skillet on medium-high or preheat a stovetop griddle to approximately 375 degrees. Once heated, place the ham steaks in the skillet or on the grill.

Cook the ham steaks for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the steaks become opaque. You can cook them longer if you prefer your steak to be more crispy. It is typically not necessary to add oil or seasoning to the ham steak due to its high fat and sodium content. If you find that the ham steak begins to stick to the surface, add 1 tsp. of olive oil.