Cocktail Ham Balls
Sweet and savory cocktail ham balls feature ground pork and ham glazed with brown sugar, vinegar, and pineapple juice, perfect for entertaining or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground pork, ground ham, eggs, milk, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs on a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, vinegar, pineapple juice, and dry mustard.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ham balls.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 60 to 70 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or finely chopped onions to the meat mixture. If you don't have ground ham, you can substitute it with an equal amount of finely chopped cooked ham or even turkey for a lighter version. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the meatballs; they should reach 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail ham balls make a great appetizer for parties and pair beautifully with Creamy Potatoes And Broccoli for a complete meal. Serve them with toothpicks and a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue or sweet mustard. For a refreshing contrast, consider a light Vegetable Salad Stack-Up on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cocktail 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, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Ham Balls contains roughly 614 calories, with 17g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 867mg per serving (38% 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 cocktail ham balls?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked ham balls. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you're out of bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko as a substitute. Alternatively, ground oats or even cooked rice can work in a pinch, providing a slightly different texture while still binding the meat mixture effectively.
How do I know when the ham balls are done cooking?
The best way to ensure your ham balls are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, they should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
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).