Individual Ham Balls
Individual ham balls offer a savory blend of ground ham and pork, coated in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground ham, ground pork, graham cracker crumbs, eggs, and milk in a bowl.
- Mix well and form the mixture into individual balls.
- In a separate saucepan, mix tomato soup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard.
- Bring the sauce to a boil and simmer slowly until thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the meat balls and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try adding chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. If you're out of graham cracker crumbs, crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. Be mindful not to overmix the meat, as it can lead to tough balls. Consider using lean ground turkey for a lighter option, adapting this dish into a healthier version.
Serving Suggestions
These ham balls are delicious served with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans for a hearty meal. They also pair well with a fresh salad for a lighter option. For a fun twist, serve them on slider buns for easy appetizers, reminiscent of Hamburger Hoagies, or as part of a buffet spread.
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 for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious not to overcook, as this may dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Individual Ham Balls contains roughly 858 calories, with 25g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
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 the individual ham balls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked ham balls. Form them, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen; just increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just add some spices like garlic powder and onion powder to mimic the flavor of canned soup.
How do I know when the ham balls are done cooking?
The ham balls are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. They should also be firm to the touch and have a nice glaze from the sauce.
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).