Swedish Ham Balls
Swedish Ham Balls are savory, sweet, and tangy meatballs featuring a blend of ham and pork, coated in a brown sugar and vinegar glaze, perfect for hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, vinegar, water, and dry mustard in a saucepan and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground ham, ground pork, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and milk; mix well.
- Form the meat mixture into small balls.
- Place the meatballs in a casserole dish and pour the prepared sugar-vinegar mixture over them.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 270°F (132°C) for 1 1/2 hours, basting often.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to the meat mixture. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work as a substitute. When forming the balls, make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat if you prefer a variation. This dish pairs beautifully with Pork Chops, Bavarian Style.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Swedish Ham Balls as a hearty entree alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. They also make a great appetizer for parties. Consider pairing them with a tangy mustard sauce for dipping or serving them over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is versatile and can be included in a buffet spread or family-style meal, making it perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham balls in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. They can also be microwaved, but this may result in a drier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Ham Balls contains roughly 784 calories, with 25g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 583mg per serving (25% 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 leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham works perfectly in this recipe. Just grind or finely chop it to ensure it mixes well with the ground pork. This is a great way to use up extra ham while adding flavor to the dish.
What can I serve with Swedish Ham Balls?
Swedish Ham Balls are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, potato salad, or baked beans. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread and a light coleslaw to balance the flavors.
Can I freeze Swedish Ham Balls?
Yes, you can freeze Swedish Ham Balls! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to enjoy them again.
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).