Vi'S Ham Loaf
A hearty and flavorful ham loaf combining ground ham and pork, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with its savory taste and comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground ham, ground pork, bread or cracker crumbs, milk, and slightly beaten eggs in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add salt and pepper to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours.
- If the loaf becomes too brown, lower the oven temperature slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your ham loaf, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the mixture. If you prefer a different texture, try substituting half of the bread or cracker crumbs with cooked rice or oats. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember to adjust the salt if your ham is particularly salty.
Serving Suggestions
Vi's Ham Loaf pairs beautifully with Bacon-Scallion Mashed Potatoes and a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a tangy mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping. For a festive touch, consider slicing it thinly for sandwiches or using it as a hearty appetizer with toothpicks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the loaf and microwave it for 1-2 minutes or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, ensuring it's heated through without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vi'S Ham Loaf contains roughly 1522 calories, with 63g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (126% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1426mg per serving (62% 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 different types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option, but keep in mind that they will alter the flavor and texture of the final dish. Mixing in some beef can also add richness.
How do I know when the ham loaf is done baking?
To ensure the ham loaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Additionally, the loaf should be firm to the touch and have a nice golden-brown exterior. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Can I freeze the ham loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the ham loaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. If baked, slice it, wrap the pieces, and freeze them separately to make reheating easier.
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).