Ann'S Ham Loaf
A savory ham loaf blending pork, vegetables, and a sweet chili sauce topping, finished with a creamy mustard drizzle—perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have the butcher trim all fat from the fresh lean pork and grind both the fresh and cured pork together.
- Mix the ground pork with chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, egg, crumbled bread, and milk until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan or casserole dish.
- Generously cover the top of the loaf with brown sugar and pour a bottle of chili sauce over it.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours.
- Once baked, top the loaf with whipping cream and mustard to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique flavor twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. If you don't have fresh bread, breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Adjust the level of chili sauce based on your spice preference. To make this dish lighter, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of pork. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, like Slow Cooker Green Beans. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside cornbread or roasted sweet potatoes for added sweetness and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices on high for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 916 calories, with 17g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 704mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze leftover ham loaf?
Yes, you can freeze ham loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, you can use ketchup mixed with a bit of hot sauce for a similar flavor. Alternatively, a blend of barbecue sauce and sriracha can also work well to give that sweet and spicy kick.
How do I know when the ham loaf is fully cooked?
To check if the ham loaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) in the center. Additionally, the loaf should be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when cut.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).