The Ultimate Scrapple Recipe: A Delectable Breakfast Indulgence That Will Delight Your Senses!

Introduction

Scrapple is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a cherished tradition that dates back to colonial America. Originating from the Pennsylvania Dutch community, this dish has been a staple in many households for generations. The word “scrapple” is derived from the German word panhas, meaning “pan hare,” which describes a dish made from leftover parts of a pig. For settlers in the mid-Atlantic region, Traditional scrapple was a resourceful way to use every part of the pig, turning what might otherwise be discarded into a deliciously unique dish.

Today, scrapple is loved for its hearty, savory flavor and crispy texture when pan-fried. While it’s popular in Pennsylvania and surrounding states, it has recently gained more attention across the U.S. If you’ve never heard of Savory meatloaf before, you’re in for a treat. Imagine a savory loaf made from pork, cornmeal, and spices, sliced and fried until golden brown and crispy. It’s a comfort food that pairs perfectly with eggs or pancakes, offering a deliciously unique start to your morning.

This guide will show you how to make scrapple from scratch with simple ingredients and a step-by-step process. You’ll learn the basics of preparing this classic dish and some expert tips to ensure your Savory meatloaf turns out perfect every time. Whether you’re looking to recreate a childhood favorite or try something new, this recipe will help you make scrapple that’s every bit as good as the ones found in diners and old-fashioned eateries.

Homemade Scrapple

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5 from 3 reviews

• Author: Ethan Brown
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

This homemade scrapple recipe is a savory loaf made from pork, cornmeal, and spices. It’s sliced, fried to a golden brown, and served as a hearty breakfast side.

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Ingredients

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1 pound pork shoulder (or ground pork)

4 cups water

1 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground sage

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground thyme

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

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Instructions

1. Boil the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large pot with 4 cups of water. After bringing it to a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 45 minutes or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
2. Prepare the Cornmeal Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, ground sage, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, and allspice. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of cold water to form a smooth paste.
3. Create the Scrapple Base: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it finely. Return the shredded pork to the pot. Slowly add the cornmeal mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and cook the scrapple mixture, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes. The mixture should thicken considerably.
5. Pour into a Loaf Pan: Transfer the scrapple mixture to a greased loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Slice and Fry: Once set, slice the scrapple into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Fry the slices in a hot skillet with a little oil until crispy and golden brown on both sides. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a smoother texture, you can blend the pork and cornmeal mixture before pouring it into the loaf pan.

You are welcome to modify the seasonings to your taste

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Why You’ll Love This Savory Meat Loaf Recipe

1. Rich in Flavor: The perfect blend of spices adds depth to this hearty dish, making each bite savory and satisfying. The combination of pork and cornmeal creates a well-rounded flavor profile that stands out on its own.
2. Versatile: Scrapple can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even as a savory side dish for dinner. It’s also a great addition to breakfast sandwiches or paired with different sauces and toppings.
3. Easily customizable: You can change this recipe to fit your tastes. Experiment with different meats like beef or turkey, or try adding extra spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
4. Affordable Ingredients: Made with budget-friendly staples like pork and cornmeal, this recipe is both economical and delicious. It’s a great way to make the most of pantry items and leftover pork.
5. Nostalgic Comfort Food: For those who grew up eating scrapple, this recipe is a taste of home. Recreating it can bring back fond memories and introduce new generations to a beloved family tradition.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

1. Pork Shoulder: The traditional meat for scrapple, pork shoulder has the right balance of fat and flavor. It ensures the Breakfast loaf has a rich taste and smooth texture. You can substitute it with ground pork or even a combination of pork and beef for a slightly different flavor profile.
2. Cornmeal: Used to give the Breakfast loaf its firm texture, cornmeal is a crucial ingredient. For a gluten-free option, you can use polenta or a mix of cornmeal and rice flour. Fine cornmeal works best for a smoother scrapple, while coarse cornmeal gives a more rustic texture.
3. Spices (Sage, Thyme, Nutmeg, Allspice): These seasonings provide the signature flavor of Breakfast loaf. The combination of earthy sage and thyme with warming spices like nutmeg and allspice creates a balanced and aromatic blend. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary, marjoram, or even garlic powder for a different taste.
4. Water/Broth: Using water keeps the Breakfast loaf light, but substituting it with chicken or vegetable broth can add extra depth of flavor. Just remember to modify the salt content appropriately.
5. Oil/Butter for Frying: For frying, use a neutral oil like vegetable oil, or opt for butter if you prefer a richer flavor and golden-brown crust.

How to Make Hearty Breakfast Meat (Step-by-Step)

1. Boiling the Pork: Start by boiling the pork shoulder to extract its natural flavors and tenderize the meat. Make sure to skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a cleaner broth. This process is crucial for getting a concentrated pork flavor that enhances the final dish.
2. Mixing the Cornmeal Paste: While the pork is cooking, prepare the cornmeal paste by combining it with water and spices. This helps to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture and prevents clumping when added to the hot pork broth.
3. Incorporating the Pork and Cornmeal: Slowly add the cornmeal paste to the pork broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This step ensures a smooth, even consistency and helps the scrapple set properly once cooled.
4. Cooking to the Right Thickness: The mixture should be cooked until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This consistency is key to achieving a firm, sliceable scrapple loaf. Make sure to cook over low heat to prevent burning and to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cooling and Setting: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan and allow it to cool completely. This helps the scrapple set, making it easier to slice and fry. Cooling for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, will give the scrapple a firmer texture that holds up well when frying.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use Cold Water for Cornmeal Paste: Adding cold water to the cornmeal before incorporating it into the hot pork broth prevents clumping and results in a smoother texture.
• Stir Constantly: When cooking the scrapple mixture, stir it frequently to avoid sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
• Chill Overnight: Letting the scrapple set in the refrigerator overnight will make slicing and frying easier and help maintain its shape during cooking.
• Grease the Loaf Pan Well: To ensure easy removal of the scrapple, grease the loaf pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Scrapple: Replace the pork with a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, and vegetable broth for a meatless version. Adding a bit of soy sauce can mimic the umami flavor of a meat-based Homestyle meat patty.
• Spicy Scrapple: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the cornmeal mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Scrapple: Mix in shredded cheddar or gouda to the Homestyle meat patty base for a cheesy twist. This variation is great for those who enjoy a creamy, savory flavor.
• Turkey Scrapple: Substitute pork with ground turkey for a leaner option. The lighter flavor of turkey pairs well with the traditional Breakfast loaf seasonings, offering a healthier alternative.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftover scrapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Scrapple will continue to firm up as it chills, making it even easier to slice.
• Freezing: Freeze slices of scrapple separated by parchment paper in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. This method allows you to take out individual portions as needed.
• Reheating: Reheat scrapple in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy, or use a toaster oven for convenience. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the Breakfast loaf soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Scrapple is best enjoyed with classic breakfast sides like scrambled eggs, hash browns, or toast. You can also serve it with apple butter, maple syrup, or a dollop of ketchup for a touch of sweetness that complements its savory flavor. For a complete breakfast, pair scrapple with pancakes or waffles, and enjoy it with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is scrapple traditionally made of?
   Scrapple is traditionally made from pork scraps and cornmeal, seasoned with herbs and spices, and formed into a sliced and fried loaf.
2. Why is it called scrapple?
   The name “scrapple” comes from the word “scrap,” as the dish was originally made using leftover scraps of pork. It reflects the frugal and resourceful cooking style of early settlers.
3. Can I bake scrapple instead of frying it?
   You can bake scrapple by placing slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and baking at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
4. Is Scrapple gluten-free?
   Traditional scrapple is not gluten-free due to the cornmeal, but you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free cornmeal or polenta.

Related Recipes

• Pork Sausage Gravy and Biscuits
• Cornmeal Mush
• Fried Grits Cakes

Conclusion

This homemade scrapple recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a piece of American culinary history. Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, you’ll love the savory flavors and crispy texture. Try this dish and share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!

Don’t forget to share your scrapple creations on social media using the hashtag #HomemadeScrapple.

Made with Love Chef Ethan

‘ Cooking Up a Storm at Recipe Castle’