Hot Ham And Cheese Balls
Hot Ham And Cheese Balls are crispy, savory bites combining ground ham, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, perfect as appetizers or party snacks. Their cheesy, meaty flavor appeals to all ages and pairs well with dipping sauces, making them an irresistible treat for gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground ham, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, dry parsley, minced onions, and 1 1/2 cups toasted bread crumbs until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in the reserved 1/2 cup toasted bread crumbs.
- Deep fry the balls in a 350°F (175°C) deep fryer until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ham mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. You can also bake these balls at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier alternative, turning them halfway through cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hot ham and cheese balls with a side of honey mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping. They make a delightful appetizer or snack for game day gatherings and pair beautifully with Creamy Hash Browns for a hearty meal. Consider serving them alongside a fresh spinach salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hot ham and cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Ham And Cheese Balls contains roughly 870 calories, with 25g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1167mg per serving (51% 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 leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this recipe, as it adds great flavor and reduces waste. Just make sure it is finely ground or chopped so it blends well with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze these ham and cheese balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked ham and cheese balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be fried directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
What can I serve with hot ham and cheese balls?
These balls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a tangy dipping sauce. For a complete spread, consider pairing them with Mom Leeper'S Baked Beans.
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).