Easy Ham Loaf Recipe – Juicy, Tender, and Glazed to Perfection!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Rest Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

Ham Loaf Recipe Ingredients

To embark on your ham loaf journey, you will need a handful of key ingredients that harmoniously blend together to create a symphony of flavors. The main components include:

1. Ham: Choose a high-quality ham that suits your preferences. Whether you opt for a smoky spiral-cut ham or a boneless variety, ensure it is well-cooked and has been allowed to cool before using it in the recipe.
2. Ground Pork: Combine the ham with ground pork, which adds depth and richness to the loaf. Look for freshly ground pork that exhibits a balance of lean and fatty portions, allowing for a moist and tender end result.
3. Bread Crumbs: These act as a binding agent, holding the loaf together while providing a subtle texture. Opt for fine or coarse bread crumbs depending on your desired consistency.
4. Eggs: Eggs contribute to the structural integrity of the loaf, ensuring a cohesive mixture. They also impart a delightful richness and contribute to the moistness of the final dish.
5. Milk: Adding a touch of milk to the mixture helps retain moisture during the cooking process. This helps prevent the loaf from drying out and enhances its tenderness.
6. Onion: Finely chop a fresh onion to infuse the loaf with a subtle sweetness and aromatic essence. The onion’s gentle presence adds a harmonious balance to the overall flavor profile.
7. Seasonings: Elevate the taste of your ham loaf with a blend of seasonings. Consider incorporating spices like ground mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, or even a pinch of nutmeg to create a unique and memorable flavor experience.

Ham Loaf Recipe Preparation

Preparing the Ham

• Choosing the right ham: Selecting the right ham is crucial to the success of your ham loaf. Look for a ham that is flavorful, well-cooked, and free from excessive fat or gristle.
• Cooking and cooling the ham: If you have a fully cooked ham, follow the instructions for cooking and allow it to cool completely before using it in the recipe. Cooling the ham not only facilitates shredding or grinding but also ensures a food-safe temperature for further preparation.
• Shredding or grinding the ham: Once cooled, shred or grind the ham to the desired consistency. Some prefer coarser shreds for a rustic texture, while others prefer a finer grind for a more uniform loaf.

Mixing the Ingredients

• Combining ham and ground pork: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or ground ham with the ground pork. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to blend the meats evenly.
• Adding bread crumbs and eggs: Incorporate the bread crumbs and eggs into the meat mixture. Ensure thorough distribution to enhance the binding properties of the loaf.
• Incorporating milk and onion: Pour in the milk and add the finely chopped onion to infuse the loaf with moisture and flavor. Stir gently until well combined.
• Seasoning the mixture: Sprinkle the desired seasonings over the mixture and mix thoroughly, ensuring that every bite is infused with the delightful aroma and taste of the spices.

Ham Loaf Shaping and Cooking Instructions

Shaping the Ham Loaf

1. Using a loaf pan: Preheat your oven and grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the mixture into the pan, pressing it down gently to create an even surface.
2. Forming into a loaf shape without a pan: If you prefer a more rustic presentation, you can shape the ham loaf by hand. Place the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and mold it into a loaf shape using your hands.

Cooking Methods

1. Baking in the oven: Place the loaf pan or baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake at a moderate temperature for the specified time. This allows the flavors to meld together while the loaf cooks to a golden brown hue.
2. Using a slow cooker: For a hassle-free cooking experience, you can prepare your ham loaf in a slow cooker. Line the slow cooker with aluminum foil or use a liner for easy cleanup. Set the cooker to the desired heat setting and cook for the recommended duration, ensuring the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
3. Grilling the ham loaf: If you desire a smoky and charred flavor, you can grill the ham loaf on a preheated grill. Ensure the loaf is well-formed and secure on the grill grates, and cook it over indirect heat until fully cooked, with occasional flipping for even browning.