Oh, let me tell you about the magic of a loin stuffed with ham! This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and the kind of comfort that warms your heart. I still remember the first time I had it at a family gathering; the combination of savory ham and creamy cheese inside tender loin was simply unforgettable! It quickly became a staple at our holiday dinners, and now I love recreating that same joy in my own kitchen. You can serve it for a special occasion or just because you deserve something delicious on a weeknight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find it’s not just a meal; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy your family on a cozy night in. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet delightful ingredients to create your mouthwatering loin stuffed with ham:
- 1 loin (2 pounds)
- 8 ounces ham, diced into small pieces
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (packed for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened for easy mixing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
Having everything measured and ready to go makes the cooking process so much smoother, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this delicious dish!
How to Prepare Loin Stuffed with Ham
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it ensures your loin cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown crust. So while you’re prepping, the oven is warming up, ready to work its magic!
Prepare the Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended—this is where the flavors start to come alive! You want a nice, cohesive mixture that holds together but still has some texture. If the cream cheese is too firm, don’t hesitate to give it a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften it up. Trust me, it makes mixing so much easier!
Stuff the Loin
Now for the fun part! Take your loin and make a pocket by slicing into the side, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want this pocket to hold all that delicious stuffing! Once you’ve created your pocket, take a generous scoop of the ham mixture and stuff it in there. Don’t be shy—pack it in nice and snug! If you have any leftover stuffing, you can bake it in a small dish alongside the loin. For extra security, you can use toothpicks to hold the opening closed, just to make sure nothing spills out while it cooks.
Sear and Bake
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, gently place the stuffed loin in the pan. Sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is key for building flavor and creating a lovely crust! After searing, transfer the loin to a baking dish and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy!
Rest and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the loin rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and flavorful. You’ll want to savor every juicy bite, so don’t skip this step!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into this delicious loin stuffed with ham, it’s good to know a bit about the nutritional content! Keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and their brands. Here’s a typical breakdown for one slice:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This hearty dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying choice for your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or last-minute gatherings.
- Packed with flavor, the combination of ham and cream cheese creates an irresistible filling.
- It’s an impressive dish that’s sure to wow your guests at any dinner party.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making for great next-day meals!
- It’s versatile; you can customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients, like herbs or different cheeses.
This loin stuffed with ham is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone to the table!
Tips for Success
To make your loin stuffed with ham truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, choose a lean loin—pork tenderloin works beautifully for this recipe, giving you a tender and juicy result. If you want to mix it up, feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to your stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. You could also swap out the cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter twist! And don’t forget to let your skillet get hot enough before searing; that gorgeous brown crust is what adds so much character to the dish. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delicious loin stuffed with ham, the right sides can really elevate the meal! I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes, as they soak up those savory juices beautifully. A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a lovely crunch and balances the richness of the loin. You could also serve some steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans for a pop of color and a nutritious boost. And don’t forget a warm, crusty bread on the side to mop up every bit of flavor! Trust me, these pairings will make your dinner unforgettable!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your fantastic loin stuffed with ham, you might have some delicious leftovers—lucky you! To store them properly, make sure to let the loin cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the loin in a baking dish covered with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method preserves the flavors and keeps the meat juicy—no one likes dry leftovers! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with pork loin, you can also try chicken breasts or turkey. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time based on the type and thickness of the meat.
What can I add to the stuffing?
Feel free to get creative! You can add herbs like parsley or thyme, sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness. The options are endless!
How can I tell when the loin is done cooking?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures your loin is juicy and safe to eat!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the loin a few hours in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes dinnertime a breeze!
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for delicious sandwiches or can be added to salads for an easy meal!
Loin Stuffed with Ham: A Comforting Family Favorite Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious loin stuffed with ham for a flavorful main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 loin (2 pounds)
- 8 ounces ham, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ham, spinach, cream cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in the loin and stuff it with the ham mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the stuffed loin on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the loin to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Choose a lean loin for best results.
- Serve with your choice of sides.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: loin stuffed with ham