Corn Bread Topped Ham Loaf
A hearty ham loaf topped with sweet apricot preserves and golden corn bread, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings with a blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine beaten eggs and milk.
- Stir in soft bread crumbs and chopped onion.
- Add ground ham and mix well.
- Pat the meat mixture into a 12 x 7 1/2 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the meat loaf from the oven and drain off any excess fat.
- Spread apricot preserves over the top of the ham loaf.
- Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
- Prepare the corn muffin mix according to package directions.
- Pour the corn muffin batter over the preserves-covered ham loaf.
- Bake in the 400°F oven for about 20 minutes or until the corn bread layer is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture and flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or diced bell peppers into the ham mixture. If you don’t have apricot preserves, peach or orange marmalade can be excellent substitutes. Ensure the corn muffin mix is prepared just before pouring it on top to maintain its freshness and fluffiness. This dish is a great way to use leftover ham.
Serving Suggestions
This Corn Bread Topped Ham Loaf is delicious when served with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad, such as a Spring Delight Salad. For a more filling meal, pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. It also goes well with a tangy coleslaw, balancing the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated, keeping the corn bread layer crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Bread Topped Ham Loaf contains roughly 488 calories, with 10g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 706mg 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 use fresh ham instead of fully cooked ham?
Using fresh ham will require additional cooking time as it needs to be fully cooked through. Make sure to adjust the baking duration accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it with a side of Laura'S Steam Bell Peppers for a colorful and nutritious complement to the savory loaf.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming in the oven or microwave.
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).