Super-Special Ham Loaf
A savory ham loaf layered with pineapple and seasoned with brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with its rich, sweet and tangy flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix brown sugar, dry mustard, and vinegar together.
- Pour the mixture into the bottom of a loaf pan.
- Cut slices of canned pineapple and arrange them on the bottom of the pan.
- Combine ground ham, ground fresh pork, beaten eggs, milk, crumbled crackers, and crumbled potato chips.
- Pack the meat mixture into the loaf pan, being careful not to displace the pineapple slices.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Unmold the ham loaf and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground fresh pork with pre-cooked sausage. Ensure to pack the meat mixture firmly to prevent it from falling apart during baking. Using Birds Eye Golden Glow vegetables as a side can complement the meal nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a tangy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. For a delightful twist, try serving it with a slice of glazed pineapple on top, enhancing the tropical flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice individual portions and warm them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super-Special Ham Loaf contains roughly 757 calories, with 14g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1485mg per serving (65% 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 leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover holiday ham is a great way to reduce waste and infuse flavor. Just grind it finely to ensure even mixing with the other ingredients. Adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly, as leftover ham can be salty.
What can I substitute for crumbled potato chips?
If you don't have potato chips, you can use crushed cornflakes or even breadcrumbs as a substitute. This will still provide the desired texture and help bind the meat mixture together while adding a slight crunch.
How do I know when the ham loaf is fully cooked?
To check if the ham loaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean with no pink juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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).