Ham Balls In Zesty Sauce
Ham Balls in Zesty Sauce features savory meatballs coated in a tangy tomato and brown sugar sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground ham, ground beef, eggs, and graham cracker crumbs in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine tomato soup, brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs in the pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, consider using ground turkey instead of ground beef. You can also substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed bread crumbs or oats for a different texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Ensure the meatballs are not overcrowded in the pan for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These ham balls pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve them over cooked rice or pasta. A fresh salad on the side can also complement the dish nicely. Consider serving with some crusty bread to soak up the zesty sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Balls In Zesty Sauce contains roughly 333 calories, with 9g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% 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 freeze the ham balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the formed meatballs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding some extra time to the baking process.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with regular milk by reducing it on the stovetop to thicken it, or use a mix of half-and-half for a creamier texture. Unsweetened almond milk can also work if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped fresh jalapeños into the meatball mixture. You can also increase the amount of dry mustard in the sauce or add a splash of hot sauce to the overall dish for an 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).