Imitation Ham Loaf
A savory imitation ham loaf combining ground meats, cracker crumbs, and a sweet-tangy glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground meat ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. ground hot dogs ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cup cracker crumbs or bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 egg, beaten ⓘ
- 1 or 2 tablespoon vinegar ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt or substitute hickory smoke salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup water ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup tomato juice ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix the brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar; set aside half of this mixture for later.
- Combine the remaining ingredients with the meat mixture and shape into a loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Baste the loaf with the reserved sugar mixture or pour it over the top before baking.
- Cut a slit in the loaf to pour the mixture or to baste during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using hickory smoke salt for a smoky twist. If you don't have cracker crumbs, bread crumbs work just as well. Adding a bit of finely chopped onion or bell pepper can enhance the moisture and flavor of the loaf. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, try substituting ground turkey for the ground meat.
Serving Suggestions
This Imitation Ham Loaf pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. A fresh garden salad adds a light contrast. For a fun twist, serve it with Sweet 'N' Sour Bites as an appetizer or snack. Consider drizzling extra tomato juice over the top for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Imitation Ham Loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imitation Ham Loaf contains roughly 665 calories, with 12g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2366mg per serving (103% 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 different types of ground meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just ensure the texture remains similar, so adjust the moisture accordingly. Mixing in some ground pork can also add richness.
What can I substitute for the brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Alternatively, coconut sugar or honey can be used, but keep in mind that these may slightly alter the flavor and moisture content of the loaf.
Is it possible to freeze the Imitation Ham Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the Imitation Ham Loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven.
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).