Glazed Ham Balls
Juicy glazed ham balls combine ground ham, pork, and chuck for a flavorful appetizer or main dish, coated with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together lightly but well the ground meats, graham cracker crumbs, milk, and eggs.
- Shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls or desired size.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in two 9 x 13-inch pans or suitable sizes.
- Pour tomato soup over the meatballs to cover, then combine brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard to make the glaze.
- Pour the glaze over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until cooked through and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, mix the meats gently to avoid a dense texture. If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. Adjust the glaze sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar depending on your preference. Use lean ground meats to keep the dish flavorful without being overly fatty.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed ham balls make a delightful main dish and pair well with sides like Kansas City Baked Beans or Melinda'S Green Beans And Cabbage. Serve with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal. They also work great as appetizers, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham balls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Ham Balls contains roughly 1510 calories, with 56g protein, 227g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (112% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg 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 use different types of meat for these ham balls?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly. Mixing in some ground beef will also add richness to the dish.
How can I ensure the meatballs don't dry out during baking?
To prevent dryness, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and ensure you have enough moisture from the milk and eggs. Keeping them covered with sauce during baking will also help retain moisture.
What can I do if I don't have tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding a bit of sugar and vinegar to replicate the soup's taste.
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).