"Old Faithful" Ham Loaf
A hearty ham loaf with a savory tomato soup glaze, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a flavorful, easy-to-make main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove all fat from the pork shoulder and ham, then grind them together.
- Mix the ground meat with beaten eggs, cracker crumbs, and milk until well combined.
- Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Pour the tomato soup over the loaf.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use a mix of smoked and unsmoked ham. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham or deli ham can substitute for fresh ham. For a gluten-free version, consider using crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure the mixture is well-combined to prevent the loaf from falling apart during baking. For added moisture, mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of Nelda'S Broccoli Dip Or Salad for a complete meal. A tangy coleslaw or roasted vegetables also pair well. Drizzle extra tomato soup on the side for dipping. For a hearty twist, serve alongside Fritos Chili Casserole for a delicious family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the ham loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Old Faithful" Ham Loaf contains roughly 356 calories, with 23g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. At about 356 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 shoulder?
While you can substitute ground turkey, it will change the flavor and texture of the dish. For a more traditional taste, stick to the pork shoulder or even try ground beef as a variation. If you choose turkey, consider adding spices like smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To make this ham loaf ahead of time, prepare the mixture and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it and store leftovers for easy reheating. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What can I do with leftover ham loaf?
Leftover ham loaf is versatile! Slice it cold for sandwiches, or crumble it into a breakfast scramble with eggs. You can also incorporate it into soups or casseroles, similar to how you would use in Southerner Goulash, for a hearty meal that reduces waste.
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).