Breakfast Balls

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Breakfast Balls are savory, protein-packed bites combining seasoned ground pork sausage and tender ham, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Their flavorful, meaty taste pairs well with eggs or sweet jellies, making them a versatile choice for family mornings or weekend gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground pork sausage
  • 1 lb. cooked ham
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cornflakes or similar breakfast cereal
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook 1 pound of sausage until crumbled and drain off the fat.
  2. Chop the cooked ham.
  3. Mix all the sausage with the chopped ham, eggs, crumbled cereal, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Form the mixture into large muffin-shaped balls and place them in a large muffin pan.
  5. Bake at 300°F for 45 minutes, then increase the oven temperature to brown for an additional 15 minutes.
  6. Serve hot with currant sauce or jelly.
  7. These balls are also good with scrambled or baked eggs.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like sage or thyme into the mixture. If you don't have cornflakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can serve as a substitute. To ensure even cooking, make sure the balls are uniform in size. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These Breakfast Balls are delicious on their own but can be served with currant sauce or jelly for a sweet contrast. For a complete meal, pair them with scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad. They also make a hearty addition to a brunch spread, alongside dishes like Janet's Quiche or Saucy Green Beans.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Breakfast Balls contains roughly 532 calories, with 12g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 758mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

532 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 12.8g 16% DV
Carbs 94.4g 34% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 758mg 33% DV
Potassium 685.8mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 309.8mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 75.6mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 264.4mg 20% DV
Iron 2.4mg 14% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 Breakfast Balls?

Yes, these Breakfast Balls freeze well. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.

What can I use instead of ground pork sausage?

You can substitute the ground pork sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage alternatives that resemble the texture and flavor of pork.

How do I know when the Breakfast Balls are done?

The Breakfast Balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Using a meat thermometer, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. The baking time may vary based on the size of the balls.

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).

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