No Ham Balls
No Ham Balls are savory, tender beef bites flavored with onion, garlic, and smoky notes, perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests with their hearty appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and shape into small balls. Place into a 9 x 13-inch ungreased baking pan.
- Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the balls and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped onions or bell peppers into the mixture. If you want a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can be added. If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, crushed bread or panko can work as a substitute. Liquid smoke can be replaced with smoked paprika for a different smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These No Ham Balls are delicious served over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes. They pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them with barbecue sauce for dipping, or try them with a side of the Cheeseburger 'N' Fries Casserole for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover No Ham Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Ham Balls contains roughly 1046 calories, with 21g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 662mg per serving (29% 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 freeze No Ham Balls?
Yes, you can freeze No Ham Balls before or after baking. If freezing before, shape the balls and place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef. For a different flavor profile, try using ground pork or lamb. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
How do I know when the No Ham Balls are cooked through?
To ensure the No Ham Balls are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one in half to ensure there is no pink inside. Baking them uncovered allows them to brown nicely while ensuring they are cooked properly.
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).