Holiday Ham Balls
Holiday Ham Balls are savory, cheesy bites made with shredded Cheddar, smoked ham, and Parmesan, perfect for festive gatherings. They offer a delightful combination of salty and cheesy flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for parties or family dinners with a hearty, comforting appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Bisquick, shredded Cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped smoked ham, parsley flakes, and milk.
- Mix until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with prepared spicy mustard on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped onions or bell peppers. If you're short on Bisquick, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder. To enhance the cheese flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
Serving Suggestions
These ham balls are perfect as an appetizer or party snack. Serve them hot alongside prepared spicy mustard for dipping. They pair nicely with sides like Green Beans And New Potatoes or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Sweet 'N' Sour Cabbage Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but oven reheating will keep them crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Ham Balls contains roughly 521 calories, with 31g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (72% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% 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 a different type of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute the smoked ham with cooked turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like finely chopped mushrooms or tempeh for a different flavor profile.
How can I make these ham balls spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the ham ball mixture. You can also serve with a spicier mustard or a homemade chili dipping sauce.
Can I freeze the ham balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped, uncooked ham balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be baked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).