Name: Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ onion; 1 tbsp butter; 3 cups ground ham; 1 lb Ground Pork; 1 egg; ⅔ cup Bread crumbs; ½ cup milk; ⅛ tsp black pepper; For Toppings:; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp dijon mustard; 2 tbsp cider vinegar

This glazed ham loaf is a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, combining the savory flavors of ground ham and ground pork, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a rich and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare.

Photos of Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you may need to check your stock for ground ham and ground pork. While ground pork is readily available in most supermarkets, ground ham might require a special trip to the deli counter or a butcher shop. Additionally, cider vinegar adds a unique tang to the glaze, so ensure you have it on hand.

Ingredients For Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base flavor to the loaf

Butter: Used to cook the onion and adds richness

Ground ham: Provides a salty and flavorful meat base

Ground pork: Adds moisture and fattiness to balance the ham

Egg: Binds the ingredients together

Bread crumbs: Helps to hold the loaf together and adds texture

Milk: Moistens the loaf mixture

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice

Brown sugar: Gives the glaze its sweetness

Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and depth to the glaze

Cider vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the glaze

One reader, Betteann Ryan says:

This glazed ham loaf recipe is fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and the glaze adds a delightful sweetness. It's easy to make and a hit with the whole family. Highly recommend!

Betteann Ryan

Key Techniques for Making Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

How to cook onion in butter: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, add chopped onion, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until tender. How to combine ingredients: Mix ground ham, ground pork, cooked onion, egg, bread crumbs, milk, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined. How to form a loaf: Shape the meat mixture into an 8x4-inch loaf on a parchment-lined pan. How to check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the inside of the loaf reaches 160 degrees F. How to make topping: Mix brown sugar, dijon mustard, and cider vinegar in a bowl until smooth. How to apply topping: Spread the prepared topping over the loaf during the last 20 minutes of baking. How to rest the loaf: Let the loaf rest for about 5 to 7 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

How To Make Glazed Ham Loaf

Add a surprising twist to your traditional meatloaf with this ham loaf recipe. Ground ham and pork mixed with eggs and bread crumbs in one delicious bread.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 5 minutes

Rest Time: 5 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½onion,finely diced
1tbspbutter
3cupsground ham,or very finely diced ham
1lbground pork
1egg
⅔cupbread crumbs,seasoned
½cupmilk
⅛tspblack pepper,ground

For Toppings:

¼cupbrown sugar
1tbspdijon mustard
2tbspcider vinegar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cook onion in butter for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender. Cool completely.
Combine all loaf ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Place on a parchment-lined pan and form into an 8×4-inch loaf. Bake for 1 hour or until the inside of the loaf reaches 160 degrees F.

Toppings:

Combine topping ingredients and spread over the top of the loaf during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Rest for about 5 to 7 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 519.84kcal
Fat: 31.70g
Saturated Fat: 11.80g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.39g
Carbohydrates: 21.56g
Fiber: 0.84g
Sugar: 8.15g
Protein: 34.86g
Cholesterol: 155.12mg
Sodium: 1358.59mg
Calcium: 77.70mg
Potassium: 671.15mg
Iron: 2.44mg
Vitamin A: 38.67µg
Vitamin C: 1.31mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Glazed Ham Loaf

To ensure your ham loaf stays moist and flavorful, avoid overmixing the ground ham and ground pork. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Glazed Ham Loaf

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the onion and measure out the bread crumbs and milk the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Quickly grind the ham and mix the loaf ingredients using a food processor to speed up preparation.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy cleanup and to save time on washing dishes.

Make the topping ahead: Prepare the topping mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until needed.

Cook in bulk: Double the recipe and freeze one ham loaf for a quick meal later.

Substitute Ingredients For Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

½ onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, making them a good substitute in recipes where you want a less pungent taste.
1 tbsp butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar fat content and moisture, while also adding a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
3 cups ground ham - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of ham.
1 lb ground pork - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is a leaner alternative and can be used to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
1 egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tbsp of flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp of water to create a binding agent similar to an egg, suitable for those avoiding eggs.
⅔ cup bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed oats: Crushed oats can provide a similar texture and help bind the ingredients together, while also adding a bit of fiber.
½ cup milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing moisture without altering the flavor significantly.
⅛ tsp black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level but a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
¼ cup brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness with a unique flavor twist.
1 tbsp dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can be used as a milder alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
2 tbsp cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used to achieve a comparable tangy flavor.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Glazed Ham Loaf

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the glazed ham loaf into elegant, thin slices to create a refined presentation. Arrange three slices slightly overlapping on each plate to showcase the texture and glaze.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to add a touch of color and a hint of aromatic freshness. A small drizzle of balsamic reduction around the plate can add visual appeal and a complementary flavor.
Add a side: Pair the ham loaf with a delicate side, such as a creamy potato puree or roasted seasonal vegetables. This not only adds balance to the dish but also enhances the overall dining experience.
Use a sauce: Prepare a light mustard cream sauce to drizzle over the ham loaf. This will add a layer of complexity and richness to the dish, elevating it to a gourmet level.
Plate on fine china: Use high-quality, elegant plates to serve the dish. The contrast between the glazed ham loaf and the pristine white plate will make the colors pop and enhance the visual appeal.
Create height: Stack the ham loaf slices slightly to create height on the plate. This technique adds dimension and makes the presentation more dynamic and visually interesting.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element, such as a crispy shallot garnish, to contrast with the tender ham loaf. This adds an exciting textural component to the dish.
Finish with a glaze: Just before serving, brush a final layer of the brown sugar and mustard glaze over the ham loaf slices to give them a glossy, appetizing finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Glazed Ham Loaf

Oven: Used to bake the ham loaf at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
Skillet: Utilized to cook the onion in butter until tender.
Spatula: Handy for stirring and cooking the onion in the skillet.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the loaf ingredients thoroughly.
Parchment paper: Lined on the baking pan to prevent the loaf from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Baking pan: Used to shape and bake the ham loaf.
Meat thermometer: Important for checking that the internal temperature of the loaf reaches 160 degrees F.
Small bowl: Needed to mix the topping ingredients together.
Basting brush: Useful for spreading the topping mixture evenly over the loaf.
Cooling rack: Allows the loaf to rest and cool slightly before slicing.
Knife: Necessary for slicing the ham loaf after it has rested.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the loaf.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Glazed Ham Loaf

Let the glazed ham loaf cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the loaf soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the ham loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped loaf in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label with the date and contents.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, place the thawed loaf on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high power.
If you have leftover glaze, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before brushing over the reheated ham loaf.

How To Reheat Leftover Glazed Ham Loaf

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover glazed ham loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the loaf loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.
For a quicker option, place a slice of the glazed ham loaf on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds per slice, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the ham to become tough and dry.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat individual slices of the glazed ham loaf. Place the slices on the toaster oven tray and heat at 325°F (165°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to maintain the texture of the glaze while reheating.
For a stovetop option, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place a slice of the glazed ham loaf in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. The glaze will caramelize slightly, adding a delicious flavor to the reheated ham loaf.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the glazed ham loaf. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice or two of the loaf in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help to crisp up the edges of the ham loaf while maintaining its moisture.

Interesting Trivia About Glazed Ham Loaf

A unique aspect of this glazed ham loaf recipe is the combination of ground ham and ground pork, which creates a flavorful and moist loaf. The brown sugar and dijon mustard topping adds a sweet and tangy glaze, enhancing the overall taste.

Is Making Glazed Ham Loaf at Home Cost-Effective?

This glazed ham loaf recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using ground ham and ground pork as the primary proteins, it leverages affordable ingredients like onion, bread crumbs, and milk. The brown sugar and dijon mustard topping adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15.

Is Glazed Ham Loaf Healthy or Unhealthy?

The glazed ham loaf recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High in saturated fat: The recipe uses ground pork and ham, which are both high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
High in sodium: Ham is known for its high sodium content, and using 3 cups of ground ham in this recipe contributes to a significant amount of sodium. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Refined carbohydrates: The recipe calls for bread crumbs, which are often made from refined grains. Refined carbohydrates have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, and consuming too many can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
Added sugars: The topping contains brown sugar, which adds extra calories and sugar to the dish. Consuming too much added sugar can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of pork and ham to reduce the amount of saturated fat
Reduce the amount of ham used or opt for a low-sodium variety to decrease the sodium content
Replace the bread crumbs with whole-grain breadcrumbs or rolled oats to increase the fiber content and nutrients
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the topping or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead
Add more vegetables to the loaf mixture, such as grated carrots or chopped spinach, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the ham loaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

This glazed ham loaf recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors. The combination of ground ham and pork creates a moist and flavorful base, while the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cider vinegar topping adds a tangy, caramelized finish. Cooking the onion in butter enhances the overall richness. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. However, consider adding a touch of garlic or herbs like thyme for an extra layer of complexity. Resting the loaf before slicing ensures it holds together beautifully. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners.

Enhance Your Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Complement the savory glazed ham loaf with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized edges and the slight bitterness of the sprouts will balance the sweetness of the brown sugar topping perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in creamy garlic mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. The rich, buttery texture and the aromatic garlic will provide a comforting contrast to the hearty ham loaf.

Cranberry Apple Salad: Add a refreshing burst of flavor with a cranberry apple salad. The crisp apples and tart cranberries tossed in a light vinaigrette will offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to your meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of butternut squash soup. The velvety texture and the subtle sweetness of the squash will harmonize beautifully with the savory notes of the ham loaf.

Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: For a light and nutritious side, try an herbed quinoa pilaf. The fluffy quinoa infused with fresh herbs will add a touch of elegance and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the glazed ham loaf.

Delicious Alternatives to Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe

Pineapple-Glazed Ham: A sweet and savory main course featuring a succulent ham glazed with a tangy pineapple sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special family dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes. Topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Honey-Mustard Pork Chops: Juicy pork chops marinated in a zesty honey-mustard sauce, then grilled or baked to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a rich maple syrup and butter mixture. A delightful side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Apple-Cider Braised Pork: Slow-cooked pork braised in a flavorful apple cider and herb broth. The result is a tender and aromatic dish that melts in your mouth.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Glazed Ham Loaf

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to kick off any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked until golden and bubbling, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making each bite a burst of flavor. These can be prepared ahead of time and popped into the oven just before serving, ensuring they are hot and fresh for your guests.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta offers a fresh and vibrant start to any meal. Picture toasted baguette slices topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. The crisp bread provides a satisfying crunch, while the tomato mixture bursts with freshness and flavor. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright colors and enticing aroma. Perfect for a summer gathering or any time you want to bring a taste of Italy to your table.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake that oozes with a warm, gooey center as soon as you cut into it. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious chocolate experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense flavors. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Picture a tangy lemon pie topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue, lightly browned to perfection. The tartness of the lemon filling is beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This dessert is ideal for those who enjoy a refreshing and zesty treat. Serve it chilled for a cool, invigorating finish to your meal. A graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural delight. Garnish with a twist of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus aroma.

Why trust this Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe:

This glazed ham loaf recipe is a tried-and-true classic, perfect for any family gathering. The combination of ground ham and ground pork ensures a moist and flavorful loaf, while the brown sugar and dijon mustard topping adds a delightful sweet and tangy finish. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels. Trust in the balance of flavors and the straightforward preparation to deliver a dish that will impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe collection.

Have you tried this delectable Glazed Ham Loaf Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the ham loaf is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160 degrees F to be fully cooked.

Can I use a different type of mustard for the topping?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different mustard, like yellow or spicy brown, go ahead and use that instead of Dijon.

Can I make this ham loaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the loaf and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover it well.

What can I serve with this ham loaf?

I like to serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. It pairs well with most side dishes.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Definitely! Just wrap the leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They should keep well in the freezer for up to three months.