Ham Meat Loaf
Ham Meat Loaf is a hearty, savory dish featuring ground cooked ham blended with breadcrumbs, egg, and vibrant vegetables like carrots and green pepper. The addition of chili sauce adds a subtle kick, making it a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced onions or garlic. If you prefer a spicier kick, swap out the chili sauce for a hot sauce of your choice. You can also use leftover holiday ham for this recipe, ensuring minimal waste. If you're short on time, store-bought bread crumbs work just fine.
Serving Suggestions
This ham meat loaf pairs beautifully with Barbecued Beans or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. A tangy mustard or barbecue sauce can be drizzled on top for an extra layer of flavor. It's also delicious in sandwiches the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for quicker results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Meat Loaf contains roughly 543 calories, with 14g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 694mg per serving (30% 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 raw ground ham instead of cooked ham?
It's best to use cooked ham for this recipe, as raw ground ham will not cook thoroughly during the baking process. If you have raw ham, consider cooking it first or using leftover ham for optimal flavor and safety.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this ham meat loaf gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What can I do if the meat loaf is too dry?
If your meat loaf turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also add more milk or chili sauce to the mixture for added moisture.
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).