Smoked Ham Loaf
A savory smoked ham loaf combines ground pork and ham with eggs and bread crumbs, offering a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the ham loaf for 1 hour and 15 minutes at 350°F.
- Remove from oven and let it set for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can serve as a substitute. To enhance the smokiness, try incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Ensure that the ground pork and ham are well-blended for even texture. This dish is an excellent way to use leftover ham from your holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smoked ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans (Barbecued) for a delightful contrast. For a heartier dinner, consider a side of Hitching Post Hominy. A simple salad can also lighten the meal and add freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover smoked ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for quicker reheating, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoked Ham Loaf contains roughly 888 calories, with 40g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 989mg per serving (43% 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 turkey instead of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground pork. This will result in a leaner loaf, but it may lack some of the richness that pork provides. To enhance flavor, consider adding a bit of olive oil or additional seasonings.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the smoked ham loaf gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or ground oats. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, including the ham you use, to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Can I freeze the smoked ham loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the smoked ham loaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored 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).