Ham 'N' Cheese Balls
Ham 'N' Cheese Balls are savory, creamy appetizers packed with sharp cheddar, ham, and a blend of seasonings. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, served chilled on crackers for a quick and satisfying snack.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded ⓘ
- 2 tsp. minced onion ⓘ
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. seasoning salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 (2 1/4 oz.) deviled ham
- 2 Tbsp. parsley, chopped ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. pimentos, chopped ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into a ball or small shapes.
- Chill in the refrigerator until firm.
- Serve on crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using flavored cream cheese or adding a splash of hot sauce for a kick. If you don’t have deviled ham, finely chopped ham or smoked turkey can work as substitutes. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can elevate the flavor profile as well. Be mindful not to overmix the ingredients to maintain a nice texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Ham 'N' Cheese Balls are perfect as a party appetizer or snack, served alongside a variety of crackers or fresh vegetables. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor. They also complement other American recipes, such as Jimmy Dean's Calico Beans, for a well-rounded spread at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ham 'N' Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, or serve cold for a refreshing snack. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham 'N' Cheese Balls contains roughly 281 calories, with 14g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2280mg per serving (99% 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 make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Ham 'N' Cheese Balls up to two days in advance. Just form the balls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly. You might also try a combination of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a similar depth of flavor.
How can I make these cheese balls spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce or alongside pepper jack cheese 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).