Wafer Ham Cheese Ball
A creamy, savory bite featuring blended ham, cream cheese, and a touch of mayo and Worcestershire, perfect for parties or snacking with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the wafer sliced ham in a blender until finely minced.
- Set aside half the minced ham for rolling the final balls.
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped onion, mayonnaise, and Worcestershire sauce with the remaining minced ham.
- Mix until a smooth, cohesive mixture forms.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and roll each in the reserved minced ham.
- Place the balls on a plate, cover, and chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or garlic powder to the mixture. You can substitute the wafer ham with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. To add a fresh twist, try incorporating chopped herbs like chives or parsley into the cheese blend.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese balls make a perfect appetizer for parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside crackers, fresh vegetables, or bread for a delightful spread. They pair beautifully with Mary Cooper'S Beans for a hearty snack. For a more festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs or serve on a platter with different dippings like mustard or a spicy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy them chilled. Avoid reheating, as they are best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wafer Ham Cheese Ball contains roughly 452 calories, with 9g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese balls a day in advance. Just shape them and roll them in the reserved minced ham, then cover and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and they’ll be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a little brown sugar can serve as a substitute. Both alternatives will add a similar depth of flavor to the cheese mixture while keeping it delicious.
How do I make these cheese balls vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the wafer sliced ham and replace it with finely chopped nuts or seeds for added texture. You can also incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or olives for a savory kick. This way, you can enjoy a tasty cheese ball that's suitable for everyone.
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).