Looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to wow your family and friends? This ham balls recipe is just what you need! These tender, flavorful ham balls are smothered in a sticky, sweet glaze that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is straightforward to prepare and always a crowd favorite. Let’s get started!
Ham balls have long been a beloved comfort food, often making an appearance at family gatherings and festive celebrations. This version is a bit different—it skips the pork entirely and focuses on ground ham as the main ingredient. It’s a simpler take on the classic, but don’t let that fool you; it’s just as delicious. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs perfectly with the savory ham, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients For Ham Balls Recipe
For the Ham Balls:
- 2 lbs ground ham
- 1.5 cups breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Variant Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (for a tropical twist)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (to replace half the brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step ensures your ham balls won’t stick to the dish and makes serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Ham Ball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground ham, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. If you’re using variant ingredients like crushed pineapple or smoked paprika, add them at this stage. The pineapple adds a sweet, tropical twist, while the smoked paprika gives the ham balls a subtle smoky flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Ham Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. You should get about 20-24 ham balls. Place the ham balls in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. If you’re using maple syrup as a variant, replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Ham Balls
Pour the glaze evenly over the ham balls in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, basting the ham balls with the glaze every 15 minutes to ensure they stay moist and flavorful. The glaze will thicken and caramelize as it bakes, creating a sticky, sweet coating that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the ham balls from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
The Comfort of Homemade Ham Balls
There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that feels like it’s been passed down through generations. These sweet and savory ham balls are just that—a recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. The combination of tender ham, a sticky glaze, and a touch of fresh herbs makes it a dish that feels like home.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this ham balls recipe stand out is its perfect balance of flavors. The savory ham pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy glaze, creating a harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip this up without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Dish for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday feast, a potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, these ham balls fit right in. They’re versatile enough to be the star of the show or a delightful side dish. No matter the occasion, they’re sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
The Magic of the Glaze
The glaze is what takes these ham balls from good to unforgettable. Made with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of Dijon mustard, it caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy, sticky coating that’s impossible to resist.
A Family Favorite
If you’re looking for a dish that will please both kids and adults, this is it. The sweet glaze appeals to younger palates, while the savory ham and spices keep the grown-ups coming back for more. It’s a win-win for everyone at the table.
The Joy of Hands-On Cooking
There’s something satisfying about rolling the ham mixture into balls and watching them transform in the oven. It’s a hands-on process that makes you feel connected to the food you’re preparing, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the cooking experience.
A Twist on Tradition
While traditional ham balls often include pork, this version keeps it simple with just ground ham. It’s a lighter take on the classic, but don’t worry—it’s just as flavorful and satisfying.
The Perfect Make-Ahead Dish
One of the best things about this ham balls recipe is that you can prepare it ahead of time. Shape the ham balls and make the glaze the night before, then pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
A Versatile Recipe
Feel free to get creative with this ham balls recipe . Add a touch of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist, or swap out some of the brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor. The possibilities are endless.
The Secret to Perfect Ham Balls
The key to perfect ham balls lies in the balance of ingredients and the baking process. Basting the ham balls with the glaze every so often ensures they stay moist and flavorful, while the caramelized coating adds a delicious crunch.
A Dish That Brings People Together
There’s something about a pan of glazed ham balls that brings people together. Whether it’s the aroma filling the kitchen or the first bite of that sticky, savory goodness, this ham balls recipe has a way of creating connections and sparking conversations.
The Beauty of Simple Ingredients
This ham balls recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly special. Ground ham, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a handful of pantry staples come together to make a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
A Taste of Nostalgia
For many, ham balls are a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Making this ham balls recipe is a way to carry on those traditions and create new memories with your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This ham balls recipe
At the end of the day, this ham balls recipe is all about flavor, simplicity, and comfort. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but feels special enough to serve on any occasion. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Tips and FAQs
Tips for Success
- Use freshly ground ham for the best texture and flavor. If you can’t find ground ham, pulse cooked ham in a food processor until finely chopped.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the brown sugar in the glaze by 1/4 cup.
- Make ahead: Assemble the ham balls and prepare the glaze the night before. Store them separately in the fridge and bake the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze ham balls?
A: Yes! After baking, let the ham balls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use turkey ham instead?
A: Absolutely! Turkey ham is a great alternative for a leaner option.
Q: What can I serve with ham balls?
A: They pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
You can serve it with :
Barbecue Sauce from Jelly
Share with friends
This ham balls recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these tender, glazed ham balls are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—leave a comment, rate the recipe, or tag us on social media. Happy cooking!
Perfect for: Holiday dinners, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight meal!
Sweet and Savory Glazed Ham Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Prep the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground ham, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Ham Balls: Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Glaze and Bake: Pour the glaze over the ham balls, then bake for 45-50 minutes, basting every 15 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Rest and Serve: Let the ham balls rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or smoked paprika. Serve warm with your favorite sides.