Glazed Ham Loaf
A savory glazed ham loaf combining ground ham and pork with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground ham, ground pork, bread crumbs, chopped onion, beaten eggs, milk, and catsup; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a lightly greased baking pan.
- Combine brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard in a saucepan; bring to a rolling boil.
- Spoon one-third of the glaze over the ham loaf and return to the oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes, glazing every 10 minutes with the remaining glaze.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for a total of 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist ham loaf, ensure that the ground meats are well combined without overmixing. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can pulse stale bread in a food processor or use store-bought breadcrumbs. Additionally, for an extra kick, consider adding some chopped herbs like parsley or thyme. This dish pairs wonderfully with a classic spinach salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed ham loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with a refreshing spinach salad and warm dressing or a classic coleslaw to balance the flavors. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover glazed ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water in the microwave to prevent drying out. You can also enjoy it cold in sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Ham Loaf contains roughly 497 calories, with 25g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium.
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 other meats instead of ground ham and pork?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though the flavor will differ. Mixing in some ground beef can also give a different taste and texture. Just ensure the total weight remains the same.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
To make the glaze less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. You can also add more vinegar to balance the sweetness with acidity.
Can I prepare the ham loaf in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just shape it into a loaf and bake when ready. This makes it a convenient dish for gatherings or family meals.
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).