Ham-Cheese Balls
Creamy ham and cheese balls coated with crunchy pecans, perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature.
- Combine the softened cream cheese, cooked chopped ham, chopped onions, pickle relish, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Refrigerate the mixture until it is set and firm.
- Take spoonfuls of the mixture and roll into balls.
- Roll each ball in chopped pecans to cover completely.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. Ensure all ingredients are well-chopped to make rolling easier. These ham-cheese balls are great for gatherings alongside dishes like Party Ham Roll-Ups.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham-cheese balls as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering or party. They pair wonderfully with crunchy vegetable sticks and a tangy dip. For a more complete spread, consider serving alongside crackers or bread. These bites also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, complementing flavors from other meats and cheeses.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham-cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If reheating, use a microwave in short intervals to avoid melting the cheese too much, which can alter the texture. They are better served fresh but can be made ahead for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Cheese Balls contains roughly 555 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these ham-cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just roll them into balls and coat with pecans right before serving to maintain their freshness. This makes them a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties or gatherings.
What can I serve with ham-cheese balls?
Ham-cheese balls pair well with a variety of sides such as crackers, fresh veggies, or even slices of baguette. Consider adding a selection of dips, like a spicy mustard or ranch dressing, to enhance the flavor experience for your guests.
Can I freeze the ham-cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked ham-cheese balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator and roll in pecans before serving. This is a great way to have a quick appetizer ready for unexpected guests.
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).