Appetizer Ham Balls
Sweet and savory ham balls with a hint of green onion and mustard, baked to a golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground cooked ham, lean ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, chopped green onion, prepared mustard, and beaten egg; mix well.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls in an ungreased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, try adding minced garlic or a dash of paprika to the ham ball mixture. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko instead. Additionally, for a spicier kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños into the mix. Ensure that the ham is finely ground for better texture.
Serving Suggestions
These ham balls make a fantastic appetizer at parties and pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad, like Donna'S Salad, or a side of Alabama Baked Beans for a complete meal. They also work well on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. They can also be microwaved, but this may affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Ham Balls contains roughly 1060 calories, with 39g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1530mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the ham balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed ham balls before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for peach preserves?
If you don't have peach preserves, you can use apricot or mango preserves as a substitute, or even a homemade fruit compote. The sweetness helps balance the savory flavors of the ham balls, making it a key ingredient.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the pork, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Ensure that the meat is well-seasoned to maintain the dish's overall taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).