Ham Or Chicken Loaf
A flavorful meatloaf combining ground chicken or ham with crunchy crackers, fresh vegetables, and a tangy mayonnaise and gelatine topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except gelatine and mayonnaise thoroughly.
- Soak gelatine in 1/2 cup cold water for 3 minutes.
- Dissolve gelatine over hot water and add to the mixture.
- Stir in mayonnaise until well combined.
- Pack the mixture into a greased loaf pan and refrigerate until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of chicken or ham. You can also replace saltine crackers with crushed whole grain crackers for added fiber. If you don’t have Durkee Famous Sauce, a mix of mayonnaise and mustard can work as a substitute. Ensure the gelatine is fully dissolved to avoid clumps in your loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham or Chicken Loaf sliced with a side of fresh salad or pickles for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with June'S Broccoli Casserole for a complete meal. This dish is also great for picnics or potlucks, where it can be served alongside crackers or toasted bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, slice the loaf and gently warm it in the microwave or oven, covered, to prevent it from drying out. It can also be enjoyed cold as a sandwich filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Or Chicken Loaf contains roughly 425 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (651% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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 meat in this recipe?
No, it's important to use cooked ground chicken or ham for this recipe. Raw meat will not set properly with the gelatine and could pose a food safety risk. Make sure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How long does it need to refrigerate before serving?
The loaf should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure it sets properly. This downtime allows the flavors to meld and the gelatine to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This loaf can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings. Just store it in the refrigerator and slice it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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).