Mom'S Ham Loaf(Light And Yummy)
A flavorful and moist ham loaf combining lean pork and ham, seasoned with onion, ketchup, and spices, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the pork and ham together twice and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine dry minced onion, catsup, pepper, paprika, and tapioca.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly and allow to stand for at least 5 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or substituting half of the pork with turkey for a lighter option. If you don't have Minute tapioca, you can use breadcrumbs instead, but the texture will be slightly different. Remember to grind the meats well for a smoother loaf. Also, letting the mixture sit allows the tapioca to absorb moisture, which is crucial for the final texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf warm, sliced, with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with savory sides like roasted vegetables or baked beans. For a delightful brunch option, serve with scrambled eggs alongside this dish or try it as a filling in a sandwich, similar to Pork In A Bun.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the ham loaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Ham Loaf(Light And Yummy) contains roughly 391 calories, with 30g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value) and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% 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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lean pork or ham with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just ensure the meat is lean to maintain the texture. Additionally, a combination of beef and pork can also work well, providing a different flavor profile.
How can I enhance the flavor of my ham loaf?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as thyme or sage, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Mixing in some grated cheese, like cheddar, can also give it a rich flavor. Experiment with your favorite herbs to find the perfect combination.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the ham loaf before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it should last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. For best results, freeze individual slices for convenient portions.
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).