Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal to make in your crockpot?
Look no further than ham loaf!
This savory dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in the oven or on the stovetop.
But if you’re looking for a hands-off approach, using your crockpot is the way to go.
In this article, we’ll explore the best methods for cooking ham loaf in your crockpot and how long it takes to get that perfect, juicy texture.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How Long To Cook Ham Loaf In Crockpot?
When it comes to cooking ham loaf in your crockpot, there are a few different factors to consider. The size of your loaf, the temperature of your crockpot, and the recipe you’re using can all affect how long it takes to cook.
As a general rule of thumb, a ham loaf should take approximately 6-7 hours on low heat in your crockpot. However, this can vary depending on the size of your loaf and the specific recipe you’re using.
If you’re making ham balls or mini meatloaves, these will cook much faster than a full-sized loaf. In this case, you may only need to cook them for 2-3 hours on low heat.
It’s important to note that the internal temperature of your ham loaf is what really matters when determining if it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the center of your loaf reaches 160°F before serving.
Ingredients For Ham Loaf In Crockpot
To make ham loaf in your crockpot, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with 3 cups of cooked ground ham and 8 ounces of bulk pork sausage. Add in 3 chopped green onions, 1 chopped celery stalk, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley for flavor and texture.
For binding and moisture, mix in 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 slightly beaten egg, and 1/2 cup of milk. To give your ham loaf a little kick, add in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon of prepared horseradish.
Once you’ve combined all your ingredients, form the mixture into a loaf or balls and place them in your crockpot. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
For a delicious glaze, mix together dry mustard, vinegar, water, and brown sugar to taste. Pour the glaze over your ham loaf before cooking for added flavor and moisture.
Preparing The Ham Loaf For Crockpot Cooking
Before you place your ham loaf in the crockpot, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays moist.
First, combine all of the ingredients for your ham loaf in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly and shape the meat into a loaf or balls.
Next, prepare your glaze by combining dry mustard, brown sugar, and other seasonings in a separate bowl. Mix in vinegar and water until the glaze is smooth.
Pour the glaze over your ham loaf or meatballs, making sure to coat the meat evenly.
Place your ham loaf or meatballs in the crockpot and cover with a lid. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
If you’re cooking a full-sized ham loaf, you may want to cover it with foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent the glaze from burning on top.
Once your ham loaf is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.
Cooking Ham Loaf In Crockpot: Low Or High Heat?
When cooking ham loaf in your crockpot, you may wonder whether to use low or high heat. While both options can work, low heat is typically recommended for a more even and thorough cook.
If you’re short on time, you may be tempted to use high heat instead. However, this can cause the outside of your loaf to cook faster than the inside, leading to an uneven texture and potentially undercooked meat.
On the other hand, cooking on low heat allows the ham loaf to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring that it reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking or drying out.
As mentioned earlier, a ham loaf should take approximately 6-7 hours on low heat in your crockpot. However, if you need to speed things up, you can try cooking on high heat for 4-5 hours instead. Just be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer before serving.
Checking The Ham Loaf For Doneness
To check if your ham loaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham loaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F before it is considered safe to eat.
To do this, insert the meat thermometer into the center of the loaf, making sure not to touch the bottom or sides of the crockpot. Keep the thermometer in place for a few seconds until it stabilizes and gives you a reading.
If the internal temperature is below 160°F, continue cooking the ham loaf in your crockpot until it reaches the desired temperature. If it’s already at or above 160°F, your ham loaf is ready to be served.
It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your loaf and the specific recipe you’re using. Always refer to your recipe for cooking times and adjust as necessary based on the size of your ham loaf and the temperature of your crockpot.
Serving And Enjoying Your Delicious Ham Loaf
Once your ham loaf is fully cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy! There are many ways to serve ham loaf, but one of the most popular options is to slice it and serve it with mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables. You can also use leftover ham loaf to make sandwiches or add it to salads for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
To slice your ham loaf, allow it to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the crockpot. Then, use a sharp knife to cut it into slices of your desired thickness. Serve immediately while still warm.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
When serving ham loaf, consider adding some additional toppings or sauces to enhance the flavor. A drizzle of honey mustard or barbecue sauce can add a sweet and tangy kick, while a sprinkle of herbs or spices can add some extra depth of flavor.
