Country Ham Balls
Country Ham Balls are savory, cheesy bites with a spicy kick from banana pepper, perfect as appetizers or party snacks for gatherings and casual celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the country ham slices in a food processor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, Mexican Cheez Whiz, finely chopped hot banana pepper, and Bisquick to form a stiff dough.
- Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 325°F for 25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the country ham is finely chopped in the food processor. If Mexican Cheez Whiz is unavailable, you can substitute with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Adjust the heat by using less or omitting the hot banana pepper, or consider jalapeños for a milder flavor. These ham balls are a delightful twist on traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham balls warm as a hearty appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair wonderfully with a side of Ann'S Baked Beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Braised Cabbage And Sausage for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham balls 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 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Ham Balls contains roughly 267 calories, with 5g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 make these ham balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Form the balls and store them on a baking sheet covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can bake them fresh when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Bisquick?
If you don’t have Bisquick, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This homemade substitute works just as well in this recipe and maintains the desired texture.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the ham balls?
To control the spiciness, adjust the amount of hot banana pepper you use or substitute it with a milder pepper like a bell pepper. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side to balance the heat when 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).