Barbara'S Ham Loaf
Barbara's Ham Loaf offers a hearty, savory dish combining tender ham and pork, baked to perfection with a moist, flavorful interior. It's an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or casual gatherings, appealing to lovers of comfort food and classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a loaf pan.
- Combine ground ham and pork, milk, crumbs, eggs, and salt thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan.
- Bake slowly in the oven until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Barbara's Ham Loaf, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to the mixture for extra depth. If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can serve as a good substitute. For a variation, try mixing in some grated cheese for added richness, reminiscent of Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Barbara's Ham Loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, as it pairs beautifully with Layered Lettuce Salad. A dollop of mustard or a tangy sauce can complement the savory flavors. For a heartier meal, consider mashed potatoes or Jeff'S New Potato Salad alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for individual portions. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel when microwaving to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 621 calories, with 9g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 904mg per serving (39% 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 use different types of meat in this ham loaf?
Yes, you can substitute the pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just ensure the meat has enough fat content to keep the loaf moist. Mixing in a bit of bacon can also add flavor if you want to stick with pork recipes.
What can I do if my ham loaf is too dry?
If your ham loaf turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mix. Next time, consider adding additional milk or even a bit of BBQ sauce to the mixture. You can also serve it with a rich gravy or sauce to enhance moisture.
Can I freeze the ham loaf?
Yes, you can freeze Barbara's Ham Loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating 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).