Mother'S Ham Loaf
Mother's Ham Loaf combines ground pork and smoked ham with tomatoes and eggs to create a hearty, savory dish perfect for family dinners. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a comforting choice for those who enjoy classic meatloaf-style recipes with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground smoked ham, whole tomatoes, eggs, bread crumbs, and milk.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours, or until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced onions or garlic into the meat mixture. If you don’t have smoked ham, any cooked ham will work, but the flavor profile will differ. Additionally, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a gluten-free option. Ensure the meatloaf is not overmixed to maintain a tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Ham Cole Slaw for a refreshing crunch. For a complete dinner, consider adding steamed green beans or a garden salad. Leftovers are delicious in sandwiches or crumbled over a salad for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well; wrap slices tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 939 calories, with 43g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (87% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 767mg per serving (33% 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 ground turkey instead of pork in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground pork. However, keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or a splash of broth, to keep the loaf from being dry.
How do I know when the ham loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the top should be browned, and juices should run clear when cut. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
Can I make this ham loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it on the day you plan to serve. This makes it a great dish for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
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).