Candied Ham Balls
Sweet and savory ham balls coated in a flavorful glaze, perfect for appetizers or family dinners, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shape the ground cooked ham, egg, bread crumbs, and milk or pineapple juice into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Chill the shaped ham balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Brown the ham balls in a lightly greased skillet until evenly cooked and browned.
- Place the browned ham balls in a greased 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Cover the ham balls with sauce of your choice.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until heated through and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions with the ham mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or panko can work as substitutes. Ensure the ham is finely ground for even cooking. Experimenting with different sauces like barbecue or honey mustard can also enhance the dish, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These candied ham balls make an excellent appetizer or party snack. Serve them alongside Bacony Creamed Spinach for a delightful contrast or as part of a buffet that includes Easy Hardy Corn Chowder. They pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal, making them versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ham balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious not to dry them out; cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Ham Balls contains roughly 814 calories, with 17g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 816mg per serving (35% 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 use leftover ham from a holiday meal for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover ham is a great way to repurpose it. Just ensure it's finely ground for the best texture. This recipe is perfect for utilizing those holiday leftovers and creating a new dish that everyone will enjoy.
What sauces work best for topping the ham balls?
You can use a variety of sauces based on your taste preference. Barbecue sauce adds a smoky flavor, while a sweet glaze like honey or maple syrup can create a delicious contrast. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination that complements the ham.
Can I freeze the ham balls before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed but uncooked ham balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to use, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
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).