Ham Loaf Balls

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Ham Loaf Balls combine savory ground ham and pork with a sweet and tangy vinegar glaze, perfect for hearty family dinners or flavorful gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground ham
  • 1 1/2 lb. ground pork
  • 2 c. bread crumbs
  • 2 well-beaten eggs
  • 1 c. milk
  • 1 c. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1/2 c. vinegar
  • 1/2 c. water

Instructions

  1. Bring the ingredients to a boil and simmer for a few minutes.
  2. Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
  3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour.
  4. Baste a couple of times and turn the meatballs after 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure your ham loaf balls are moist, consider adding a bit of finely chopped onion or bell pepper to the mix for extra flavor. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can serve as a good substitute. For a zesty kick, try adding some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the ham loaf balls with a side of mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal. They also pair perfectly with Garden Green Beans With Bacon, adding a fresh and savory element to your plate. For a fun twist, consider serving them with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or barbecue sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. They can also be warmed in the microwave, but this may affect their texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ham Loaf Balls contains roughly 912 calories, with 34g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 663mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

912 kcal 46% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 33.7g 67% DV
Total Fat 20.5g 26% DV
Carbs 143.4g 52% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 78.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 662.7mg 29% DV
Potassium 991.9mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 210.4mg 70% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.9mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.6mcg 3% DV
Calcium 284.3mg 22% DV
Iron 4.8mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-protein Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 loaf balls?

Yes, you can freeze ham loaf balls. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with ham loaf balls?

Ham loaf balls pair well with various sides. Traditional options include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with Pa Dutch Lasagne, adding a comforting touch to your dinner.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding a bit of mustard can balance the sweetness nicely.

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).

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