Maple Apple Ham Loaf
A savory ham and beef loaf layered with sweet apples and maple syrup, offering a delightful blend of flavors perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Spread drained canned pie apples in the bottom of a loaf pan and pour maple syrup over them to cover.
- Mix ground ham and hamburger thoroughly.
- Combine bread crumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, and dry mustard in a separate bowl.
- Add the bread crumb mixture to the meat mixture and mix well.
- Pack the meat mixture over the apples, pressing firmly with your hand.
- Bake at 375°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Drain off excess fat and allow the loaf to stand out of the oven for 10 minutes before unmolding and slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the meat mixture for added texture. If you don’t have dry bread crumbs, crushed crackers or even rolled oats can work as a substitute. If you're looking to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium ham or ground turkey instead of hamburger, which will maintain flavor but lighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Maple Apple Ham Loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole. For a delightful contrast, consider a dollop of apple sauce or cranberry sauce on the side to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Apple Ham Loaf contains roughly 815 calories, with 23g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 975mg per serving (42% 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 apples instead of canned pie apples?
Yes, you can use fresh apples; however, you’ll need to peel, core, and slice them before cooking. Sauté the apples with a bit of sugar and cinnamon until soft, then use them in place of the canned apples to enhance the dish's freshness.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and layer it over the apples in the loaf pan the night before. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Consider pairing the Maple Apple Ham Loaf with roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots for a seasonal touch. Additionally, a creamy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory loaf. Explore other side options by browsing more American recipes for inspiration.
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).