Ham Loaf With Pineapple
A savory ham loaf combined with pineapple for a sweet and smoky flavor. The dish features ground smoked ham and fresh pork, baked with pineapple slices for a tropical touch. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly the ham, pork, pepper, cracker crumbs, eggs, pineapple juice, and onion.
- Arrange 2 slices of pineapple along each side of a greased Pyrex loaf pan.
- Put the ham mixture into the loaf pan, pressing against the pineapple slices to hold them in place.
- Cut the remaining pineapple slices into fifths and place on top of the ham loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the ham mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the ground pork with ground turkey. For texture, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better integration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with sweet and tangy sauces, such as a pineapple glaze, which complements the flavors. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside E-Z Fruity Barbecue for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Loaf With Pineapple contains roughly 283 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 715mg 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, so consider adding additional seasoning to enhance the taste.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover ham loaf makes great sandwiches. Simply slice and serve on bread with your favorite toppings. You can also crumble it into a salad or use it in a breakfast hash for a hearty morning meal.
How do I know when the ham loaf is cooked properly?
The ham loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. The loaf should be firm and have a nice golden color on the outside. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
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).