Party Ham Log
A creamy, savory party appetizer featuring ground ham, cream cheese, fresh herbs, and spices, perfect for entertaining and served with crackers or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground cooked ham ⓘ
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pimiento ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 cup finely chopped chives ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons dried parsley, crumbled ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine ground cooked ham, softened cream cheese, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, chopped pimiento, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and ground pepper in a medium bowl.
- Mix well to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
- Spoon the mixture onto waxed paper and mold into two logs about 3 to 4 inches long.
- Wrap the logs and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- On waxed paper, combine chopped chives with crumbled dried parsley.
- Roll the chilled logs in the chive and parsley mixture, coating generously.
- Arrange the logs on a serving plate and serve with crackers and sliced vegetables if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the ground cooked ham with finely chopped smoked turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This dish can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings. For a festive touch, try rolling the logs in crushed nuts instead of herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham logs chilled, sliced into rounds, alongside a selection of crackers and fresh sliced vegetables for a colorful platter. For a heartier option, pair with a side of Margie'S Crock-Pot Beans to create a satisfying appetizer spread. Consider adding a tangy dip, like a spicy mustard, to enhance the flavors. They also work well as a filling addition to a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, slice the logs and place them on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a damp paper towel. Microwave in short intervals until just warmed through, being careful not to overheat and dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Ham Log contains roughly 318 calories, with 15g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (238% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (118% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value). At about 318 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the Party Ham Log can be made a day or two in advance. After molding the logs, wrap them tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy, stress-free appetizer for your party.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will give you a similar texture while reducing the calories. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, as these alternatives may have different flavor profiles.
How do I serve these logs?
These ham logs are best served cold. Slice them into 1/2-inch rounds and arrange them on a serving platter. They pair beautifully with a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables. You can also serve them with a selection of dips, such as a zesty mustard or a spicy salsa, to complement the flavors.
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).