Favorite Ham Balls
Favorite Ham Balls are savory, tender bites made with ham loaf and seasoned with pepper. Coated with crushed crackers and baked to perfection, they offer a delightful blend of smoky ham flavor and crispy exterior. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or as an appetizer, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ham loaf, crushed crackers, pepper, and eggs together in a bowl.
- Roll the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or garlic to the mixture. If you don’t have Club crackers, any buttery cracker can work as a substitution. To keep the ham balls moist, avoid overcooking them. Using ground turkey or chicken instead of ham can also yield a lighter version, perfect for those looking for alternative protein options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham balls with a tangy dipping sauce, such as barbecue or mustard, for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a salad or with Lima Beans And Pork Sausage for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Ham Balls contains roughly 347 calories, with 9g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 ham balls before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked ham balls! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ham loaf?
If you can't find ham loaf, you can make your own by mixing ground ham with ground pork or turkey. Alternatively, a combination of cooked and finely chopped ham with breadcrumbs can work as a substitute, ensuring the mixture remains moist.
How do I know when the ham balls are done?
The ham balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A toothpick inserted should come out clean, and the texture should be firm yet moist.
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).