Description
Craving a cozy meal that tastes like a warm hug? These Ham Balls are your nostalgic, savory-sweet secret weapon. Juicy bites of ham and pork get baked to golden perfection, then drenched in a glossy brown sugar glaze that’s equal parts tangy, sticky, and irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, repurposing holiday leftovers, or just want to taste your grandma’s potluck spirit—this recipe delivers big flavor, easy prep, and major applause. Grab a bowl—we’re rolling into deliciousness!
Ingredients
For the Ham Balls
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1 lb ground ham (or finely chopped leftover ham)
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1 lb ground pork or beef (or half-and-half)
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1 cup cracker crumbs (saltine or graham)
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½–¾ cup milk
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1 large egg, beaten
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½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, ½ tsp dried thyme
For the Glaze
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1 cup light brown sugar, packed
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1–2 tbsp dry mustard powder
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⅓–½ cup cider vinegar
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½ cup water or ketchup (optional, for thinner or BBQ-style glaze)
Instructions
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Prep Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
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Soften Crumbs: Soak cracker crumbs in milk for 1–2 mins.
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Mix Meat: Add ground meats, egg, and seasoning to the crumbs. Mix gently.
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Shape Balls: Form into 12–15 balls (~2 tbsp each). Place in dish, snug but not packed.
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First Bake: Bake uncovered for 30 mins.
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Make Glaze: Simmer glaze ingredients in a saucepan for 2 mins until smooth.
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Glaze & Bake Again: Pour glaze over ham balls. Return to oven 30–45 mins, basting once halfway.
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Rest: Let sit 5–10 mins before serving.
Notes
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Graham cracker crumbs = sweet depth
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Taste test your meat mix before shaping (cook a tiny patty!)
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Swap ketchup in glaze for BBQ flair
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Freeze unglazed baked balls—glaze later!
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 1 hr 15 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 22g