Crunchy Ham Ball
Crunchy Ham Ball is a savory appetizer combining ground ham, cream cheese, and spices, coated with chopped pecans. Perfect for parties and holiday gatherings, serving 8 to 10 guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Use a food processor if desired to blend ingredients.
- Add ground ham, hot pepper, onion, pecans, parsley, and mustard to the mixture and combine well.
- Chill the mixture for 1 to 2 hours.
- Form the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in chopped pecans to coat.
- Serve with Ritz or wheat crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños instead of hot pepper. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onions and pre-crushed pecans can save you effort. To enhance flavor, let the mixture sit overnight before serving. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version. This dish pairs well with other American recipes like Sausage And Cheese On Rye.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crunchy Ham Ball with a variety of crackers, such as Ritz or wheat crackers, for a delightful crunch. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. For a complete spread, consider adding a cheese board or fruit to complement the flavors. Guests will love this alongside a refreshing drink.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the uncoated ham ball for up to a month. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold or at room temperature for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Ham Ball contains roughly 17 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 this ham ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for 1 to 2 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just remember to coat it with pecans right before serving for that crunchy texture.
What should I do if I don't have pecans?
If you don't have pecans, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or almonds, both of which will add a nice crunch. For a nut-free version, consider rolling the ball in crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground ham with other cooked meats like turkey or chicken. Just ensure that the meat is finely chopped or ground so it mixes well with the other ingredients. This opens up the recipe to a variety of flavors while keeping it delicious.
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).