There you have it: a ham loaf recipe that tastes just like the one your grandmother used to make. Ground ham and pork work great together to make a juicy, sweet, and tender ham loaf with the perfect glaze on top!
Ham loaf is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Getting the bake time just right is key to ensuring a juicy, flavorful result. Follow this guide to learn exactly how long to bake ham loaf for ideal doneness.
Overview of Baking Time
The recommended baking time for ham loaf is:
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1 hour at 350°F for a 3-4 pound loaf
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Cook 25 minutes per pound.
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Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
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Internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Choosing the Right Ham
When making ham loaf, be sure to select a high-quality cured ham. Pre-cooked ham works best, rather than one that requires full cooking. Go for thinner deli-sliced ham if possible for easier incorporation into the loaf mixture. Avoid extremely fatty ham, as this can cause the baked loaf to be greasy.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground ham with 1/2 pound ground pork. Add in 1 cup dry breadcrumbs, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup milk, and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, pepper and parsley. Mix until fully incorporated. The breadcrumbs and egg bind the loaf, while the milk adds moisture.
Shaping the Loaf
Transfer the ham loaf mixture to a greased loaf pan, pressing it into the corners and smoothing the top. You can also shape it into a freeform loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush the top with glaze or mustard for added flavor.
Baking Temperature
Bake the ham loaf at 350°F, which allows the interior to cook through without burning or drying out the exterior. Much higher temperatures can cause overcooking. Lower temperatures may not properly cook the loaf.
Checking Doneness
Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf. It should register 160°F when done. If not quite done, bake for 5-10 more minutes until up to temperature. The internal color should no longer be pink.
Baking Pan Types
A metal loaf pan conducts heat well for even cooking. Ceramic or glass pans can work too. Avoid dark metal pans which may overbrown the outside before the inside is cooked. Use a rimmed baking sheet for freeform loaves.
Preventing a Dry Loaf
To prevent a dry ham loaf, add milk or broth to the mixture and brush with glaze while baking. Covering with foil for part of the baking time can also help retain moisture. Don’t overbake, and allow loaf to rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Times for Different Sizes
- 2 pound loaf – Bake around 50 minutes
- 3 pound loaf – Bake around 1 hour 15 minutes
- 4 pound loaf – Bake around 1 hour 30 minutes
- 5 pound loaf – Bake around 1 hour 45 minutes
Always confirm doneness with a thermometer, as bake times can vary.
Fun Flavor Variations
- Brown sugar glaze with cloves and orange zest
- Tangy mustard and vinegar sauce
- Spicy sriracha and honey drizzle
- Sweet pineapple teriyaki marinade
- Savory bacon and onion topping
Get creative with glazes and mix-ins like cheese, peppers and herbs to put a unique spin on classic ham loaf.
Side Dishes That Pair Well
- Buttery mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Roasted brussels sprouts and carrots
- Skillet corn bread
- Tossed salad with vinaigrette
- Egg noodles or rice pilaf
A hearty baked ham loaf makes for a perfectly satisfying entree. Round it out with traditional sides like fluffy mashed potatoes or get creative by pairing it with lighter veggie sides or a crisp green salad.
Storing Leftover Ham Loaf
Properly stored, leftover baked ham loaf will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Keep it stored in an airtight container to retain moisture. Slices of ham loaf also freeze well for longer term storage. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Tips for the Best Texture
Chop or grind the ham finely for the most cohesive texture. Allowing the mixed loaf to chill in the refrigerator before baking can also help it hold its shape better. Be careful not to pack the mixture too tightly, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
Making Mini Ham Loaves
For fun bite-sized appetizers or side dishes, simply divide the ham loaf mixture into a muffin tin. Bake these mini loaves for around 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dry and crumbly loaf – Add more milk or broth to the mixture and bake at a lower temperature.
Falls apart when sliced – Allow to rest at least 10 minutes before cutting. Use a serrated knife.
Breadcrumbs don’t stick together – Make sure to grind the ham finely so it incorporates well.
Burnt edges – Cover with foil if browning too quickly and lower oven temperature 25 degrees.
Takes too long to bake – Raise oven temperature 25 degrees if loaf seems undercooked at recommended time.
Raw pork flavor – Be sure to bake to 160°F internal temperature to eliminate any raw taste.
Baking up the perfect ham loaf is easy when you follow the simple tips in this guide. With the proper ingredients, baking time and temperature, you’ll achieve a moist loaf bursting with flavor – never dry or undercooked. Get ready to enjoy tasty slices of homemade ham loaf that everyone will request again and again!
How Long To Cook Ham Loaf
A ham loaf should take approximately an hour, this can vary a bit. Ensure the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer.
If you want to cook the loaf faster, cut it into two smaller loaves or even cupcakes and bake them like meatloaf cupcakes. Or try making ham loaf balls, similar to meatballs, for an easy appetizer idea!.
What Is Ham Loaf?
Ham loaf is made like a traditional meatloaf but tastes much different. It uses a combination of ground ham, ground pork and traditional meatloaf ingredients like eggs and bread crumbs.
It’s a great way to use up that leftover ham you aren’t sure what to do with!
- Ham: For this recipe, I use leftover ham and pulse it a few times in a food processor. You can purchase ham steaks if you don’t have leftovers.
- Ground Pork: Ham is smoky and salty, so adding ground pork balances those tastes and makes the dish more moist.
- Binders: Egg
- Taste: I add some onion to this recipe to make it taste better. Sometimes I don’t add extra salt because the ham already has a lot of it. Season it with your favorite herbs and spices, like dry mustard or garlic.
- One of our favorite parts is the glaze, which is sweet and sticky. If you have leftover ham glaze, use that instead!.
Mic’s Kitchen – Old Fashioned Ham Loaf
How long does it take to bake a ham Loaf?
Form into a loaf and bake. Top with glaze in the final 20 minutes. A ham loaf should take approximately an hour, this can vary a bit. Ensure the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer. For a shorter cook time, separating the loaf into two smaller loaves or even into cupcakes and bake like meatloaf cupcakes.
Is honey baked ham as good as regular ham?
The addition of honey will affect the calorie content of the food. One tablespoon of honey contributes to approximately 64 calories. In addition, the use of heat when making baked ham will reduce the quality of the honey.
Can you cook Ham Loaf in the oven?
When purchasing ham loaf, look for a blend of lean and fatty cuts for a moist and flavorful result. Alternatively, if making ham loaf at home, consider using a combination of ground ham and other meats such as pork or beef to add depth of flavor. Before you can cook ham loaf in the oven, it’s crucial to properly prepare the ingredients.
How long do you cook a frozen ham Loaf?
Once the ham loaf is properly thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The average cooking time for a frozen ham loaf is approximately one hour. However, it is essential to check the internal temperature of the loaf before considering it fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.