Ham balls are the kind of dish that makes you feel at home. They’re slightly sweet, a little savory, and coated in a rich, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully as they bake. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, these little flavor-packed bites never fail to impress.
But making the perfect ham balls isn’t just about throwing ingredients together. You need the right balance of ham and pork, the perfect binding agents, and a glaze that complements—not overpowers—the dish.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making ham balls from scratch—from selecting the best ingredients to troubleshooting common problems. So, let’s get started!
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Ham Balls Recipe
If you’ve never had ham balls before, you’re in for a treat. These bite-sized delights combine the smoky, slightly salty taste of ham with the richness of ground pork, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy glaze. But what makes them truly special?
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Make-ahead friendly, so you can prep them in advance.
- Versatile cooking methods—bake them, slow-cook them, or pan-fry them.
- The perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors.
“A well-made ham ball is like a perfect bite of comfort—savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.”
Now that you’re convinced you need to try this recipe, let’s dive into what ham balls actually are.
What Are Ham Balls? A Brief History and Overview
Ham balls might not be as famous as meatballs, but they hold a special place in Midwestern American cuisine, especially in Iowa and Nebraska. These states are known for their pork production, and ham balls became a creative way to use up leftover ham.
The Origins of Ham Balls
It’s believed that ham balls originated in farm kitchens, where resourceful cooks found a way to turn excess ham into something flavorful and filling. Traditionally, ham balls were served during the holidays or family reunions, often alongside creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
What Makes Ham Balls Unique?
Unlike regular meatballs, which are made primarily of beef or pork, ham balls are different because:
- They use ground ham, giving them a smoky, salty kick.
- They are typically sweeter, thanks to brown sugar or a glaze.
- They don’t rely on tomato-based sauces like many traditional meatballs.
So, what do you need to make the best ham balls? Let’s talk ingredients.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Ham Balls
You don’t need a ton of ingredients to make great ham balls, but every component plays a crucial role. Let’s break them down.
Choosing the Right Ham
Since ham is the star of the show, picking the right type is essential.
Best options:
- Fully cooked ham, especially leftovers.
- Smoked ham for extra depth of flavor.
- Ground ham, which some grocery stores sell pre-ground.
Pro Tip: Avoid using deli ham—it’s too soft and doesn’t have the right texture for ham balls.
The Best Ground Pork for Ham Balls
Ham alone won’t create the right texture. It needs ground pork to add moisture and bind the mixture together.
- 80/20 ground pork has enough fat to keep the ham balls tender.
- Lean ground pork is a lighter option but may require added moisture.
Key Seasonings and Spices
A good ham ball is all about balance. Here’s what you need:
- Brown sugar for a hint of sweetness.
- Eggs to bind the mixture together.
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for structure.
- Milk to keep the ham balls tender.
- Mustard powder and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Must-Have Ingredients for a Tasty Glaze
The glaze is what takes ham balls from good to incredible. It caramelizes as it bakes, adding a delicious sticky coating.
Classic glaze ingredients:
- Brown sugar for sweetness.
- Ketchup or tomato sauce for tang.
- Apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
- Mustard for a sharp contrast.
“A good glaze is like the finishing touch on a masterpiece—it brings everything together with a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors.”
Now that we’ve got everything we need, it’s time to make the ham balls!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham Balls
How to Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Grind the ham – If using a whole ham, pulse it in a food processor until finely ground.
- Mix everything together – In a large bowl, combine ground ham, ground pork, eggs, brown sugar, crushed crackers, mustard powder, and milk.
- Gently combine – Mix with your hands until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can make the ham balls dense.
Forming and Shaping the Ham Balls
- Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Place them on a greased baking dish or parchment-lined sheet.
- Make sure they’re not touching so they cook evenly.
The Best Cooking Methods: Oven, Slow Cooker, or Stovetop?
You can cook ham balls in different ways, depending on your preference.
Baking (Best for Crispy Edges)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Add the glaze, then bake for another 20 minutes until caramelized.
Slow Cooker (Best for Extra Tender Ham Balls)
- Place ham balls in the slow cooker.
- Pour the glaze over the top.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Stovetop (Best for Quick Cooking)
- Sear the ham balls in a skillet until browned.
- Pour the glaze over them, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
How to Make the Perfect Sweet and Tangy Glaze
- In a small saucepan, mix brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and mustard.
- Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour over the ham balls during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
“The secret to a rich, flavorful ham ball is in the glaze—let it caramelize for that perfect sticky finish.”
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even though making ham balls is simple, a few things can go wrong if you’re not careful. Maybe your ham balls are too dry, too salty, or they keep falling apart. No worries—I’ve got solutions for all the common issues so you can make perfect ham balls every time.
Why Are My Ham Balls Falling Apart?
If your ham balls aren’t holding their shape, it’s usually due to a lack of proper binding ingredients.
Possible Causes:
- Not enough eggs or breadcrumbs to hold the mixture together.
- Overmixing, which breaks down the texture too much.
- Too much moisture from excess milk or wet ingredients.
Solution:
- Make sure to use enough eggs and breadcrumbs to create a sturdy texture.
- Mix the ingredients gently—don’t overwork the meat.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.
“A good ham ball should hold its shape but still be tender when you bite into it. Finding the right balance is key.”
How to Keep Ham Balls Moist and Juicy
Nobody wants dry, tough ham balls. The key to a juicy texture is using the right mix of ingredients and cooking them properly.
Possible Causes:
- Lean pork without enough fat.
- Overbaking or cooking at too high a temperature.
- Not enough liquid in the mixture.
Solution:
- Use 80/20 ground pork for the right fat content.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) and avoid overcooking.
- Add a small splash of milk to keep the ham balls moist.
- Baste with glaze during the last 20 minutes to lock in moisture.
Fixing an Overly Salty or Bland Flavor
Since ham is already salty, you need to be careful about how much seasoning you add. If your ham balls end up too salty or bland, here’s how to fix them.
For Salty Ham Balls:
- Use unsalted crackers or breadcrumbs instead of seasoned ones.
- Increase the amount of ground pork in the mixture to balance the flavors.
- Add a little brown sugar or honey to counteract the saltiness.
For Bland Ham Balls:
- Use a mix of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes before forming the ham balls to let flavors blend.
- Make sure the glaze is well-balanced—it adds a lot of flavor to the final dish.
How to Prevent the Glaze from Burning
A sweet glaze can caramelize beautifully, but if the oven is too hot or the glaze is too thick, it can burn before the ham balls finish cooking.
Solution:
- Apply the glaze during the last 20 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- If using a slow cooker, add half the glaze at the start and the rest near the end.
- If you notice burning, cover the dish loosely with foil and reduce the oven temperature slightly.
“A perfectly cooked glaze should be sticky and rich—not burnt and bitter. Timing is everything!”
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Ham Balls
Ham balls pair well with a variety of side dishes, whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or something light and fresh.
Classic Pairings: Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables
For a hearty meal, try these timeless sides:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery potatoes balance out the sweetness of the glaze.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make great roasted sides.
- Buttered Corn – A simple yet delicious side that complements ham’s natural saltiness.
Healthy Alternatives: Salads and Roasted Veggies
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, these options work well:
- Spinach Salad – Tossed with nuts, cranberries, and a light vinaigrette.
- Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Broccoli – A simple, healthy option that adds color to the plate.
Unique Side Dish Ideas for a Flavor Boost
Want to try something different? Here are some creative pairings:
- Sweet Potato Fries – The slight sweetness complements the glaze beautifully.
- Mac and Cheese – A creamy, cheesy dish that pairs perfectly with ham.
- Garlic Bread – Adds a nice crunch and soaks up extra glaze.
“The right side dish can make your ham balls the star of the meal. Choose something that complements the sweet and savory flavors!”
Variations and Creative Twists on the Traditional Recipe
Ham balls are versatile—you can tweak the recipe to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Spicy Ham Balls: Adding a Kick
For those who love heat, add:
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Spicy barbecue sauce instead of a sweet glaze.
- Jalapeño slices mixed into the ham ball mixture.
Cheesy Ham Balls: A Creamy Twist
If you love cheese, try:
- Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the ham mixture.
- Stuffing each ham ball with a small cube of cheese before cooking.
- Sprinkling parmesan over the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Ham Balls
For a low-carb version, make these swaps:
- Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
- Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit.
- Serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
Glaze Variations: Brown Sugar, Mustard, and More
While the classic glaze is a mix of brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar, you can switch things up:
- Maple Glaze – Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a rich flavor.
- Honey Dijon Glaze – A mix of honey and Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
- Barbecue Glaze – A smoky-sweet option that pairs great with grilled ham balls.
“A small change in ingredients can create a completely different flavor. Get creative and make this recipe your own!”
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Ham balls are great for leftovers, and you can easily store them for later use.
How to Store Leftover Ham Balls
- Refrigerator: Store ham balls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing and Reheating for Later Use
- Freezing: Let ham balls cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag.
- Reheating from frozen: Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or thaw overnight in the fridge first.
Meal Prep Tips: Make-Ahead Ham Balls
- Form and freeze raw ham balls, then bake when needed.
- Prepare the glaze separately and store in the fridge until ready to use.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for easy meals later.
“Meal prepping ham balls makes weeknight dinners so much easier. Just heat and serve!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Balls
There are always a few questions that come up when making ham balls. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient swaps, cooking adjustments, or storage tips, here are the answers to the most common queries.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, you can adjust the meat mixture based on your preference or what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that ham balls get their signature flavor from ham, so substituting too much may change the taste.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner option, but may need additional fat for moisture.
- Ground Beef – Can work, but will make the dish taste more like traditional meatballs.
- All Ham, No Pork – This can be done, but the texture might be too dry. Add a little extra milk or egg to compensate.
How Do I Make Gluten-Free Ham Balls?
If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, the biggest adjustment will be replacing the breadcrumbs or crackers.
Gluten-free substitutions:
- Crushed gluten-free crackers or panko.
- Almond flour or coconut flour.
- Crushed pork rinds (low-carb and gluten-free).
Make sure to also check that any sauces or mustards in the glaze are certified gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Keep Ham Balls from Drying Out?
If you’re worried about dry ham balls, here are a few tips:
- Use 80/20 ground pork for the right balance of fat and moisture.
- Don’t overbake—use a meat thermometer and remove them from the oven at 165°F (75°C).
- Add a small splash of milk or an extra egg for a softer texture.
- Let the ham balls rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to settle.
“A little extra moisture goes a long way in keeping ham balls tender and flavorful.”
Can I Make Ham Balls in Advance?
Yes! Ham balls are a great make-ahead meal because they store well in both the refrigerator and freezer.
If making ahead for the fridge:
- Form the ham balls and place them in a covered dish.
- Store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and follow the cooking instructions.
If making ahead for the freezer:
- Form the ham balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Freeze them for 2-3 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Store them for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight or bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
More Tasty & Satisfying Recipes to Try
If you love the savory and slightly sweet flavors of Ham Balls, here are some other delicious recipes you might enjoy:
- Try this Meatloaf Recipe with Lipton Onion Soup for a hearty and flavorful take on a classic dish.
- Looking for a perfect side dish? This Southern Cornbread Recipe pairs wonderfully with ham and other comfort foods.
- If you enjoy rich, meaty flavors, this Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe is a must-try for your next dinner.
- Want to add a cheesy and creamy side? This Cheesy Rice Recipe is a comforting dish that pairs well with ham balls.
- Love smoky, slow-cooked meals? This Brisket Chili Recipe is packed with deep, rich flavors for a cozy dinner option.
These recipes will bring even more delicious flavors to your table. Try them out and enjoy every bite!
Conclusion: Enjoying the Perfect Ham Balls Every Time
Making homemade ham balls is easier than you think, and once you master the basics, you can experiment with different flavors and cooking methods. Whether you’re serving them as a holiday dish, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck favorite, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Key Takeaways:
- Use a combination of ham and ground pork for the best texture.
- Balance the flavors with brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar in the glaze.
- Choose the right cooking method—bake, slow cook, or pan-fry.
- Prevent dryness by using the right fat ratio and avoiding overcooking.
- Experiment with different variations like spicy, cheesy, or keto-friendly ham balls.
“Cooking is all about taking a recipe and making it your own. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and techniques to create your perfect version of ham balls!”
Now that you have everything you need to know, it’s time to get cooking. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making the most delicious ham balls you’ve ever tasted.