Church Supper Ham Loaf
Church Supper Ham Loaf is a comforting, hearty dish combining ground meats with a sweet and tangy sauce. Its rich flavors are balanced by the acidity of vinegar and the sweetness of brown sugar. Perfect for family dinners or communal gatherings, it offers a nostalgic, satisfying meal with a savory, slightly sweet profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large mixer bowl, lightly but thoroughly combine the meats and crumbs; use your hands if necessary.
- In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and add the sour cream, onion, lemon juice, black pepper, water, cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
- Mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the meat mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or celery to the meat mixture. If you don't have cider vinegar, white vinegar can be a suitable substitute. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly for a consistent texture and flavor. Using a meat thermometer can help you check doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F.
Serving Suggestions
This ham loaf pairs beautifully with Holiday Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or Dijon Potato Salad for a hearty meal. For a more casual approach, slice and serve on a bun for a delightful sandwich. A side of green beans or glazed carrots complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Church Supper Ham Loaf contains roughly 101 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ground turkey instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ham in this recipe. However, be aware that turkey will yield a different flavor and texture. To enhance the taste, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to mimic the richness of ham.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble the meat mixture and place it in the loaf pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with ham loaf for a complete meal?
For a complete meal, pair the ham loaf with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Additionally, serving it with Easy Fruit Pudding can provide a nice balance of flavors, making for a satisfying dinner.
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).