Ham Bites
Cream cheese and ham bites make a savory, easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties, featuring creamy, salty flavors with crunchy pickle accents that appeal to a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread cream cheese on a slice of ham.
- Place a pickle stick at one end of the ham slice.
- Roll the ham tightly around the pickle and secure with toothpicks.
- Insert 4 toothpicks along the ham roll to hold it together.
- Chill the ham roll for 1 hour.
- Slice the roll between the toothpicks to serve, leaving the toothpicks in place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy twist, consider blending in some herbs or spices into the cream cheese, such as garlic powder or dill. You can substitute the baked ham with turkey or roast beef for a different flavor. If you want a crunchier texture, try adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers to the cream cheese. This recipe is versatile and pairs well with appetizers like Deviled Eggs With Zip.
Serving Suggestions
These Ham Bites make for a delightful appetizer at gatherings or parties. Serve them alongside a fresh vegetable platter or a light salad for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with Easy Stew Soup for a heartier option. You can offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce, to enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ham Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the toothpicks in place until you’re ready to serve; this helps maintain the roll's shape. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if you prefer them warm, but they are best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Bites contains roughly 371 calories, with 10g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% 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 low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy. Regardless, the flavor will still be delicious, and it will make for a lighter appetizer option.
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).