HAM LOAF: A CLASSIC MIDWEST COMFORT RECIPE

Quick Facts:

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-12
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Dietary Info:

– Not Vegetarian
– Contains: Eggs, Potential Gluten
– High Protein

Equipment Needed:

– Large mixing bowl
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Measuring tools
– Meat thermometer
– Saucepan for glaze

Ingredients:

Meat Base:

– 2-3 cups ground ham
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2-4 large eggs
– ⅔-1½ cups breadcrumbs
– ½-1½ cups milk
– ½-1 finely chopped onion

Seasonings:

– 1-2 tbsp mustard
– ½ cup ketchup (optional)
– ¼ tsp black pepper
– Pinch of paprika

Glaze:

– Brown sugar
– Vinegar
– Mustard
– Optional: Pineapple

Preparation Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Sauté onions until tender (optional but recommended)
3. Mix ground ham, ground pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, onions, and seasonings thoroughly
4. Shape mixture into a loaf in baking dish
5. Sprinkle with paprika
6. Bake covered for 30-60 minutes
7. Prepare glaze by combining ingredients in saucepan
8. Uncover loaf, brush with glaze, continue baking
9. Bake until internal temperature reaches 160-165°F
10. Rest 5-7 minutes before slicing

Crucial Tips:

– Use meat thermometer for perfect doneness
– Don’t overmix – keeps texture light
– Baste occasionally for moisture
– Let rest before slicing

Storage:

– Refrigerate: 4 days
– Freeze: Up to 4 weeks
– Reheat at 325°F, covered

Variations:

– Add sausage for PA Dutch style
– Try different glazes
– Make mini loaves
– Experiment with graham cracker crumbs

Pro Hints:

– Balance salt by mixing ham with unseasoned pork
– Sauté onions for deeper flavor
– Use leftover holiday ham

Common Mistakes:

– Overmixing creates dense texture
– Underbaking leaves mixture wet
– Forgetting to check internal temperature

Nutrition Note:

Protein-rich, moderate fat. Sodium content varies with ham selection.

Serving Suggestions:

– Perfect for family dinners
– Great potluck contribution
– Excellent holiday leftover recipe

Enjoy your classic ham loaf – a true Midwest comfort food tradition!