Crunchy Cheese And Ham Ball
Creamy and savory, these crunchy cheese and ham balls are perfect for parties or snacking, combining tender ham, smooth cream cheese, and crunchy nuts for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the nuts until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls and then coat them in chopped nuts.
- Serve with crackers of your choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you don't have chopped nuts, crushed crackers or seeds can also be used for coating. Adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika can enhance flavor. For a vegetarian version, consider using cooked lentils or chickpeas instead of ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crunchy Cheese and Ham Balls on a platter with an assortment of crackers. They also pair well with fresh vegetables like celery sticks or bell pepper strips. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a sweet dip or browse more American recipes for additional party ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. To enjoy them warm, reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat, as they can become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Cheese And Ham Ball contains roughly 340 calories, with 7g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cheese and ham balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese and ham mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll them into balls and coat with nuts right before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I use instead of Armour tender chunk ham?
If you prefer a substitute, cooked ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian option, consider using finely chopped mushrooms or a meat substitute that mimics the texture of ham.
How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
To control the heat, you can reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce or omit it entirely. Alternatively, if you like it spicier, add more hot sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños for extra kick.
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).