Ham Balls Recipe: Ham balls are a classic Midwestern comfort food, often served during holidays, family gatherings, or potluck dinners. Imagine the savory goodness of ground ham mixed with pork, shaped into tender meatballs, and baked in a sweet and tangy glaze. The result? A dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and a little nostalgic. Unlike regular meatballs, ham balls strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser.
This dish originated in states like Iowa and Nebraska, where ham was abundant and families needed a creative way to stretch their meat supplies. Over the years, it evolved into a traditional recipe, with slight variations depending on family traditions. Today, ham balls remain a beloved staple because they’re budget-friendly, filling, and incredibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why ham balls should be on your menu. First, they’re versatile—you can serve them as a main dish with mashed potatoes or as an appetizer at parties. Second, they’re easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients. Finally, the sauce—usually a mix of brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard—adds a unique sweet-and-tangy kick that elevates the flavors.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but impressive enough for special occasions, ham balls are the way to go. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to create the perfect ham balls.
Essential Proteins
- Ground ham – The star of the recipe, giving the meatballs their distinctive flavor.
- Ground pork – Balances the saltiness of the ham with a mild, juicy texture.
Binding Ingredients
- Bread crumbs or crushed graham crackers – Helps hold the mixture together.
- Eggs – Provide structure and stability.
- Milk – Adds moisture, preventing the ham balls from becoming dry.
Flavor Boosters
- Onion – Freshly chopped onion enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Basic seasonings to bring out the taste of the meat.
- Mustard powder (optional) – Adds a subtle tang.
Sweet and Tangy Sauce Ingredients
- Brown sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization.
- Vinegar – Adds tanginess to balance the sweetness.
- Mustard – For that classic zesty kick.
- Tomato sauce or ketchup – Adds body and depth to the glaze.
Kitchen Tools Required
Basic Utensils
- Mixing bowls – For combining the meat mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accuracy in ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – For chopping onions and prepping ingredients.
Recommended Cookware
- Baking dish – A large casserole dish works best for baking ham balls.
- Saucepan – For preparing the glaze.
- Whisk – Helps blend the sauce smoothly.
- Serving spoon – For scooping out and plating the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham Balls
Step 1 – Preparing the Meat Mixture
Start by combining ground ham and ground pork in a large mixing bowl. Add breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and a splash of milk to bind the mixture together. For extra flavor, season with salt, black pepper, and a little onion or garlic powder. Mix everything gently with clean hands or a wooden spoon until well blended, but don’t overwork the mixture—this keeps the ham balls tender.
Step 2 – Shaping the Balls
Scoop portions of the meat mixture and roll them into evenly sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Keeping the sizes consistent ensures they cook evenly.
Step 3 – Preparing the Sauce
In a saucepan, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and a touch of mustard for a sweet-and-tangy glaze. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring until smooth. This sauce is what gives ham balls their signature flavor.
Step 4 – Baking the Ham Balls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped ham balls in a baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over them. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes, basting occasionally, until the ham balls are cooked through and glazed beautifully.
Step 5 – Serving and Garnishing
Remove the ham balls from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve them hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a comforting, hearty meal.
Tips for Perfect Ham Balls
Texture Tips
- Use a mix of ground ham and pork for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the ham balls tender.
- If the mixture feels too dense, add a splash of milk; if too wet, adjust with bread crumbs.
Flavor Variations
- Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor.
- Add crushed pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
- Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or celery into the mixture for added texture.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked ham balls for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Ham balls reheat beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Nutritional Value of Ham Balls
Calories and Macronutrients
A typical serving of ham balls (about 3 pieces with sauce) provides:
- Calories: ~350–400
- Protein: 18–20g
- Carbohydrates: 25–30g (mainly from the sauce and bread crumbs)
- Fat: 15–18g (from pork and ham)
This makes ham balls a hearty, filling dish that provides a good balance of protein and energy.
Healthier Ingredient Alternatives
- Swap regular pork for lean ground pork or turkey.
- Use whole wheat bread crumbs instead of graham crackers.
- Opt for a low-sugar ketchup or tomato puree to reduce sugar.
- Cut down on brown sugar or substitute with honey for natural sweetness.
With these swaps, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors with a lighter nutritional profile.
Pairing Ideas
Side Dishes That Work Best
Ham balls pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy
- Buttered egg noodles
- Roasted root vegetables
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
For a more indulgent spread, serve them alongside cheesy scalloped potatoes or baked mac and cheese.
Drinks to Pair With Ham Balls
- Non-alcoholic: Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with citrus
- Alcoholic: Light red wines like Pinot Noir, or a crisp cider
- A cold beer also complements the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Meat
Mixing too aggressively can make the ham balls dense and tough. Always fold the ingredients gently until just combined.
Incorrect Baking Temperature
Baking at too high a temperature can burn the sauce while leaving the meat undercooked. Stick to 350°F for even cooking and a caramelized glaze.
Another common mistake is skipping the resting period after baking—letting them sit for 5 minutes ensures juicy results.
FAQs about Ham Balls Recipe
Q1: Can I make ham balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze them raw or baked. Just thaw before baking or reheating.
Q2: Can I substitute pork with another meat?
Absolutely—ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
Q3: Do I have to use graham crackers?
No, bread crumbs or even crushed saltine crackers work as great alternatives.
Q4: How do I keep ham balls from drying out?
Make sure to add enough milk to the mixture and avoid overbaking.
Q5: Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish or multiple dishes to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Ham balls are a delicious, nostalgic dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With a savory ham-and-pork base, held together with simple pantry staples, and finished with a sweet and tangy glaze, this recipe is a winner for family dinners, holidays, or casual gatherings.
They’re easy to make, versatile, and even better the next day. Whether you enjoy them with mashed potatoes, noodles, or simply as an appetizer, ham balls are sure to win over anyone who tries them.
So the next time you’re craving a cozy, homemade meal, give this step-by-step ham balls recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed.
