Aunt Millie'S Ham Loaf
A hearty ham loaf combining ground ham and pork, baked to perfection with a flavorful glaze. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings requiring comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground uncooked ham and ground lean pork together thoroughly.
- Add eggs, horseradish, uncooked oatmeal, soft bread crumbs, and milk to the meat mixture and combine well.
- Place the mixture into greased or Pam-sprayed baking pans.
- Pour glaze over the loaves.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
- Baste with glaze every 10 minutes.
- Continue baking for an additional 45 to 60 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed onions or garlic into the meat mixture. If you don't have horseradish, Dijon mustard can work as a substitute. To achieve a moist loaf, ensure the oatmeal is well incorporated and not too dry. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute turkey for the pork in this ham loaf recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Millie's Ham Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. A tangy mustard glaze on top enhances the flavors beautifully. For a complete dinner, pair it with a fresh salad or some homemade cornbread. This dish also makes excellent sandwiches with leftover slices, perfect for lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Millie'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 805 calories, with 21g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1268mg per serving (55% 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 the ham loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the ham loaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What kind of glaze should I use?
A simple glaze can be made with brown sugar, mustard, and a splash of vinegar. For a sweeter option, a combination of honey and apple cider vinegar works well. Pour the glaze over the loaf before baking and baste every 10 minutes for a delicious finish.
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different meats. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version, or you could try a combination of meats like beef and pork for a richer flavor profile. Just ensure the total weight remains around 3 pounds for the best texture.
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).