Pork Balls
Sweet and savory pork balls glazed with brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar, perfect for family dinners or entertaining, offering a comforting and flavorful dish with tender meatballs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground pork, ground ham, cracker crumbs, eggs, milk, salt, and minced onion in a mixing bowl.
- Shape the mixture into 16 balls.
- Place the meatballs in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, mix brown sugar, dry mustard, and vinegar. Cook over medium heat until boiling.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. If you don’t have cracker crumbs, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can work as a substitute. Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking and to avoid drying out. You can also experiment with the sauce by adding a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pork balls over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with Spice Baked Beans for a complete dinner experience. Fresh coleslaw or steamed vegetables make excellent sides to balance the rich flavors. For a casual gathering, they can also be served as appetizers with toothpicks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil, baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. They also freeze well; just thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Balls contains roughly 432 calories, with 16g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1143mg per serving (50% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with ground beef or turkey if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield delicious meatballs. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same for even cooking.
What can I do if the mixture is too wet?
If the mixture feels too wet, you can add more cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This will help the meatballs hold their shape while baking. Always mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if cooking from cold; they may need an additional 10 minutes in the oven.
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).