Ham Balls With Raisin Sauce
Ham Balls with Raisin Sauce are savory, tender meatballs infused with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, they pair well with sauces and sides that complement their hearty taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400° F.
- In a large bowl, lightly mix ground ham, quick cooking oats, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, eggs, milk, and prepared mustard until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls.
- Arrange the ham balls in a shallow baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use freshly ground ham for a richer flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute half of the ground ham with ground turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers can enhance the flavor profile. If you don't have quick cooking oats, instant oats can work in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
These ham balls are delicious served with a drizzle of raisin sauce, which adds a sweet contrast. Pair them with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a festive touch, serve with our Mary'S Crock-Pot Beans for a hearty dinner that guests will love.
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 microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Balls With Raisin Sauce contains roughly 57 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (12% 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 ham balls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped ham balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of prepared mustard?
If you don't have prepared mustard, you can substitute with Dijon mustard or even a bit of honey mustard for a slightly sweeter taste. Alternatively, omit the mustard entirely if you prefer a milder flavor, but consider adding a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How do I know when the ham balls are cooked through?
The ham balls are done when they are golden brown on the outside and have reached an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If you don't have one, cut a ball in half to ensure it is no longer pink inside.
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).