Honeyed Pineapple Ham Loaf
A sweet and savory ham loaf featuring pineapple, honey, and cloves, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings with a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Drain the crushed pineapple.
- Cut the luncheon meat into 4 slices, not quite through to the bottom.
- Place the luncheon meat in a greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Mix the crushed pineapple with the brown sugar and honey.
- Spread the pineapple mixture between the slices of luncheon meat and over the top.
- Stud the meat with whole cloves.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider substituting the luncheon meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add chopped bell peppers or onions to the pineapple mixture for extra flavor. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the honey and brown sugar slightly. Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This honeyed pineapple ham loaf pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside Doris' Barbecue Sauce for an extra layer of flavor. It also works well with a starchy side like mashed potatoes or rice to balance the sweetness of the loaf. Garnish with fresh herbs for presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honeyed Pineapple Ham Loaf contains roughly 834 calories, with 3g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (14% 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you'll need to finely chop it and ensure it's adequately sweet. Fresh pineapple may require additional sweetener, so taste the mixture before adding it to the ham loaf.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad or a fruit salad like Peach Nut Salad complements the sweetness of the ham loaf. You can also serve it with roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting meal.
Can I freeze the ham loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the ham loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions.
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).