Iowa Ham Balls
Hearty ham balls glazed in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, blending savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground ham, ground beef, beaten eggs, milk, and graham cracker crumbs.
- Shape the mixture into 2-inch balls using a 1/3 cup measure.
- Place the balls in two large shallow roasting pans.
- Combine all remaining ingredients (tomato soup, vinegar, brown sugar, prepared mustard) and pour over the balls.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 hour, basting frequently with the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your Iowa Ham Balls stay moist, consider adding a bit of finely chopped onion or bell pepper to the meat mixture. If you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, you can increase the brown sugar to taste. For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies. Remember to mix the meat gently to avoid tough balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Iowa Ham Balls with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the side for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or steamed green beans can add a nice contrast. These meatballs also pair beautifully with 'Oh So Easy Meat Pie' for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, serve them in slider buns for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the ham balls and sauce in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in individual portions, covered, for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Iowa Ham Balls contains roughly 546 calories, with 12g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
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 only ground beef instead of mixing with ham?
Yes, you can use only ground beef, but the flavor will be different. The ham adds a unique sweetness and depth to the dish. If you prefer a beefier taste, consider using a mix of beef and pork for added moisture and flavor.
How can I make these ham balls in advance?
You can prepare the ham balls and place them in the roasting pans with the sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use a homemade tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes mixed with a bit of sugar and seasoning for sweetness. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can provide a different flavor profile that complements the ham balls well.
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).