Ham Loaf
Ham loaf is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ground pork and ham, creating a savory and hearty meal. The addition of celery and cracker crumbs adds texture, while the eggs and milk bind everything together. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist ham loaf, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed bread or seasoned breadcrumbs work well as substitutes. Adjust the salt based on the saltiness of the ham used. You can also mix in some herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve ham loaf sliced with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Sandra's Baked Beans for a classic comfort food experience. You might also consider a refreshing salad like Hot Spinach Salad to balance the richness of the dish. Leftover ham loaf can be used in sandwiches or as a breakfast protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For quick reheating, you can use the microwave, but be cautious not to dry it out. Leftovers can also be used in sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Loaf contains roughly 451 calories, with 10g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 755mg per serving (33% 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 leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover ham is a fantastic way to utilize scraps and infuse extra flavor into your ham loaf. Just make sure to grind it finely to blend well with the pork and other ingredients.
What can I substitute for the eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the loaf moist.
How can I tell when the ham loaf is done baking?
The ham loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the top should be nicely browned, and the loaf should feel firm to the touch. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).