Old Fashioned Ham Pork is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The Old Fashioned Ham and Pork Loaf delivers heartwarming flavors in a cozy meal perfect for family dinners. Whether you’re reminiscing about family gatherings or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. Let’s dive into the details of this classic dish!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Ham Pork

This Old Fashioned Ham Pork recipe is not just about taste; it’s about the experience. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore it:

Heartwarming flavors reminiscent of traditional ham and vintage pork.
Simple ingredients make it easy to prepare.
Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Low fat, making it a healthier option compared to other meatloaf recipes.
Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better!
Versatile; pair it with various sides for a complete meal.

This recipe also highlights the beauty of a classic ham cut, making it a dish you’ll want to repeat.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Ham Pork

Gather these items:

3/4 lbs ground ham (adds a rich, savory flavor)
1/2 lbs ground pork (brings moisture and tenderness)
1 cup panko bread crumbs (provides texture and structure)
3/4 cup milk (helps bind the ingredients)
1 each egg (acts as a binding agent)
3/4 cup brown sugar (complements the savory elements)
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (adds subtle heat)
1/4 cup red wine or apple cider vinegar (cuts through richness)
3/4 cup brown sugar for glaze (caramelizes beautifully when baked)
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard for glaze (adds flavor to the glaze)

How to Make Old Fashioned Ham Pork Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cube the ham into small cubes for even grinding.
Step 2: Process the ham in a food processor for 30 seconds, then scrape and pulse again for another 30 seconds until finely ground.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Step 4: Spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg lightly.
Step 6: Add the ground ham, ground pork, bread crumbs, and milk into the bowl and mix well.
Step 7: Fold the ingredients together gently to maintain tenderness.
Step 8: Shape the mixture into small loaves and place in the baking dish.
Step 9: In a separate bowl, mix the glaze ingredients until dissolved.
Step 10: Brush the tops of the loaves with the glaze before baking.
Step 11: Bake for 30 minutes.
Step 12: After 30 minutes, brush the tops with half of the reserved glaze and continue baking.
Step 13: Once the bottoms are brown, remove from the oven, glaze and let rest for 20 minutes.
Step 14: Transfer to a plate, garnish if desired, and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Ham Pork

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For added flavor, try using aged heritage pork.
Make sure not to overmix to keep the loaf tender.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Ham Pork

Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Pair it with steamed vegetables for a healthy balance.
Consider a tangy apple cider glaze to enhance flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Ham Pork

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This meal prep-friendly dish makes it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Ham Pork

What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Ham Pork?

The secret lies in using high-quality ground ham and pork. Ensure that you don’t overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf. Using a blend of traditional ham and vintage pork can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Can I make Old Fashioned Ham Pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Ham Pork?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Overbaking can lead to a dry loaf, so monitor your cooking time closely. Stick to the recipe for the best results.

Variations of Old Fashioned Ham Pork You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with variations:

Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
Try adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers or onions.
Substitute ground beef for a different flavor profile while keeping it traditional.

This Old Fashioned Ham Pork recipe is versatile and can cater to different dietary preferences while maintaining its classic roots. Enjoy!