The aroma of roasted ham, glistening in a sweet sauce, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. As the satisfying crunch gives way to that tender, juicy center, it’s hard not to be reminded of gatherings filled with laughter, family, and delicious food. This version of ham balls stands out, offering an enticing blend of savory meat and a vibrant glaze that makes it a dish you’ll want to share.

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These ham balls perfectly blend time-tested flavors into a hassle-free preparation. Budget-friendly ingredients come together in no time, making this a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, they’re versatile enough to fit into any meal plan—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family. Try them out; you might just discover a new favorite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Ham Balls
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Ham Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes of prep and 75 minutes in the oven, these ham balls can be on your table in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze, combined with the savory ham and beef, offers a mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Their round shape and glistening sauce make them visually delightful, perfect for any gathering.
Flexible Serving: Serve them as appetizers at a party or as a hearty main dish at dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easy to adapt with gluten-free graham cracker alternatives if needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups cubed ham: This is the star of the dish. Choose a flavorful cooked ham for the best results.
1 pound ground beef or pork: Adds richness; feel free to use turkey for a lighter option.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder to help hold the ham balls together.
1/4 cup milk: This keeps the mixture moist and helps blend the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or salt and black pepper: Season to preference; fresh ground pepper can enhance the flavor.
1 cup graham cracker crumbs: This unique ingredient adds a hint of sweetness and texture.
10.5 ounce can tomato soup: The base of the sauce, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
1 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the glaze, balancing the flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This brings a tangy bite, cutting through the sweetness.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Adds depth and a little zing to the sauce.

How to Make Ham Balls

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 13×9 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or nonstick spray; this helps prevent sticking.
Prepare the Ham: Using a food processor, grind the ham until it reaches a consistency similar to ground beef. This ensures even distribution throughout your ham balls.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, 1 pound ground beef (or pork), 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup milk, and 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or salt and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Shape the Balls: Form the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls. Position them in the greased baking dish, evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together 10.5 ounce can tomato soup, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon yellow mustard. Combine until smooth and glossy.
Glaze the Ham Balls: Pour the sauce evenly over the ham balls, ensuring they get a generous coating.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven uncovered. Bake for 1 hour, basting with the sauce every 20 minutes for extra flavor and moisture. They should be bubbly and warm when done.
Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, with the remaining glaze spooned over the top for added richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze ham balls; store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change a bit when reheating, but refreshing them with a drizzle of glaze can help restore their original flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overmixing your meat mixture; a gentle hand keeps ham balls tender.
Ensure all ingredients, especially the egg and milk, are at room temperature for better blending.
For added flavor, try mixing in some minced garlic or finely chopped herbs into the mix.
If your ham balls feel dry, add a little more milk to the mixture before shaping.
These ham balls make great picnic fare; just pack them up once they cool down!

Every bite of ham balls offers a delightful burst of flavor, mingling the savory richness of the ham and beef with the sweet glaze that envelops each one. It’s all about creating that tender, juicy center with an inviting exterior—whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make ham balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate them in the baking dish before baking. Just add additional cooking time if directly baking from the fridge.

What can I serve with ham balls?

These versatile dishes pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Can I freeze ham balls after baking?

Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.

Are ham balls good for parties?

Indeed, they are perfect for parties! Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to grab and enjoy, and the flavors delight guests of all ages.

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Ham Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Ham Balls

Storing & Reheating

Chef’s Helpful Tips