Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful appetizer that marries both simplicity and nostalgia, look no further than this old-fashioned ham and cheese balls. This classic recipe has lasted through the years, loved for its rich flavors and comforting feel.

These ham cheese balls are perfect for any gathering. They’re bite-sized treats made with finely diced ham and creamy cheese, mixed with seasonings that bring out their natural flavors.

Whether at family gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers, ham and cheese balls will be sure to be a big hit that brings warmth and smiles to everyone at the table.

So without wasting any more of your time, let’s jump right into this yummy appetizer.

Why Do People Love Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls?

People love old-fashioned ham cheese balls for many reasons. First, they’re incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. You might add a bit of heat with spicy mustard or balance flavors with some sweet relish.

These cheese balls are also easy to make and require small effort for maximum reward. They’re an ideal make-ahead option that allows you to prepare them in advance and chill them until your guests arrive.

Plus, the mix of tasty ham and creamy cheese makes a comforting and familiar taste that reminds many of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. So whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these ham cheese balls are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients Needed for Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this traditional ham cheese balls that pack flavor in every bite:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cooked ham, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
• 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines) or nuts for coating

Optional add-ins:

• Chopped parsley for freshness
• A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for spice

Nutritional Information for Ham Cheese Balls

Here is a simple guide to the nutrition in about 2 ham cheese balls. This table shows the energy and nutrients in these tasty snacks:

Equipment Needed

To make Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls, you’ll need the following tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for mixing
• Cutting board and knife (for chopping ham, green onions, etc.)
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper (for shaping and refrigerating the mixture)
• Plate or shallow dish (to hold the crushed cracker coating)
• Serving tray (for presentation)

Recipe for Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment on hand, it’s time to make these delicious cheesy balls. Follow these simple steps for a delicious batch of ham cheese balls:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, gather all the ingredients so they are easy to reach. Put the softened cream cheese in a big bowl. Make sure the ham is chopped into small pieces for a smooth texture in each bite.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together

Add the finely chopped ham, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and any extras like parsley or spices to the cream cheese in the bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything until it’s all well-blended and spread evenly.

Step 3: Shape the Mixture

Take a portion of the cheese mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Continue doing this until all the mixture has been used. This step is important for achieving the perfect bite-size that delights your guests.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese Balls

Get a plate and put some crushed crackers or nuts on it. Roll each cheese ball in the crumbs until they are completely covered. This will add a nice crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

After coating all the cheese balls, put them on a plate and cover them with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Chill in the fridge for at least one hour so the flavors mix well. When ready, place them on a serving tray for a nice display that will wow at any event.

Congratulations! 🎊 You have made your own delicious batch of old-fashioned ham cheese balls.

If you love these traditional recipes, you should also try some of our other famous ones like Old-Fashioned White Lily Cornbread and Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake. These recipes have been passed down through generations, bringing joy and comfort to many families. I hope you like them.

Old-Fashioned Ham Cheese Balls Recipe

Usman Malik

These ham cheese balls are perfect for any gathering. They're bite-sized treats made with finely diced ham and creamy cheese, mixed with seasonings that bring out their natural flavors. Whether at family gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers, ham and cheese balls will be sure to be a big hit that brings warmth and smiles to everyone at the table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper
• Plate or shallow dish

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup cooked ham finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions optional
• 1 cup crushed crackers e.g., Ritz or saltines or nuts for coating

Optional add-ins:

• Chopped parsley for freshness
• A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for spice

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• First, gather all the ingredients so they are easy to reach. Put the softened cream cheese in a big bowl. Make sure the ham is chopped into small pieces for a smooth texture in each bite.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together

• Add the finely chopped ham, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and any extras like parsley or spices to the cream cheese in the bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything until it’s all well-blended and spread evenly.

Step 3: Shape the Mixture

• Take a portion of the cheese mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Continue doing this until all the mixture has been used. This step is important for achieving the perfect bite-size that delights your guests.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese Balls

• Get a plate and put some crushed crackers or nuts on it. Roll each cheese ball in the crumbs until they are completely covered. This will add a nice crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

• After coating all the cheese balls, put them on a plate and cover them with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Chill in the fridge for at least one hour so the flavors mix well. When ready, place them on a serving tray for a nice display that will wow at any event.

Notes

When making ham cheese balls, you can change the ingredients to fit different tastes and diets. Adjust the spices and coatings to create a flavor that your guests will love. Make sure to store and handle them properly to keep them fresh and safe to eat.

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Creative Ways to Serve Ham Cheese Balls

If you want to add an extra touch of creativity and presentation to your cheese balls, here are some ideas:

• Serve with Different Dips: Make ham cheese balls taste better by serving them with dips like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy salsa. This lets everyone choose what they like.
• Put on Sticks: For a nice look, put cheese balls on sticks with cherry tomatoes, olives, and small pickles. This looks good and makes it easy for guests to eat.
• Use Seasonal Ingredients: Add seasonal toppings or flavors to make your cheese balls special. Try cranberries and walnuts in the fall, or fresh herbs like basil in the summer.
• Make a Cheese Ball Platter: Instead of just ham and cheese, make different cheese balls with various fillings and coatings. This platter looks nice and has something for everyone.
• Serve with Artisan Bread: Pair the cheese balls with thin slices of artisan bread or crackers. The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and crunchy bread makes for a delightful textural contrast.
• Garnish Creatively: Use edible flowers, fresh herbs, or microgreens to give your cheese balls an appealing appearance. A splash of bright colors can make your appetizer table stand out.
• Add to a Salad: For a new twist, crumble the cheese balls over a mixed green salad. The creamy texture and rich flavors go well with a crisp, leafy base.

Storage Suggestions

Here are some tips on how to store leftovers and make the most of your ham cheese balls:

• Store in Fridge: Leftover ham cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate Uncoated Balls: If you want to make the cheese balls in advance, refrigerate them without coating. Just before serving, coat them with crushed crackers or nuts.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze cheese balls that aren’t coated for later. Put them on a baking sheet with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then move them to a freezer bag or container.
• Thawing: To thaw, move the cheese balls from the freezer to the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Don’t thaw them at room temperature to keep them safe and in shape.
• Serving after Freezing: After thawing, the cheese balls might need to be rolled in more crushed crackers or nuts to make their coating fresh and crunchy before serving.

Tips for Making Perfect Ham Cheese Balls

If you’re new to making cheese balls, these tips will help you get great results:

• Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure to leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing with other ingredients. This makes it easier to mix and gives a smoother texture.
• Cut Ham into Small Pieces: By cutting the ham into small pieces, each bite will have a nice mix of flavors. It also makes shaping and coating easier.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that cream cheese and other cheese ingredients are at room temperature to make mixing easier and result in a smoother texture.
• Flavor Balance: Change the seasoning to balance flavors. Add more Dijon mustard or garlic powder for a spicier taste or use less for a milder flavor.
• Different Coatings: Try using crushed pretzels, nuts, or herbs to add new flavors and textures.
• Adjust to Tastes: You can change the recipe to fit your guests’ likes and dietary needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making old-fashioned ham cheese balls is a fun cooking activity that is both simple and creative. Whether served at a family get-together or as a party snack, these tasty bites offer many ways to serve them and can be easily customized to fit different preferences.

By following these storage tips and expert advice, you can make sure your cheese balls taste great and are easy to prepare ahead of time. Use this classic recipe to add tradition and happiness to any event and creats flavors that you’ll remember long after the last bite.

FAQ

How far ahead can I prepare cheese balls?

You can prepare cheese balls up to three days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and ensure they are well-coated just before serving to ensure freshness and optimal flavor.

Can I use any type of cheese for the recipe?

Yes, definitely. You can change this recipe and try different cheeses. Instead of cheddar, use mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack if you like it spicy. Just make sure the cheese melts well and tastes good with the ham.

How do I prevent the cheese balls from becoming too soft?

To keep your cheese balls firm, make sure the cream cheese isn’t too soft, and chill the balls before serving. If needed, add firmer ingredients like nuts or crushed crackers to give them more body and texture.

What are some allergy-friendly variations?

For a nut-free option, you can cover the cheese balls with crushed pretzels or seeds. If someone can’t have dairy, try plant-based cheese alternatives that work the same way.

Are there vegetarian versions available of this dish?

Yes, simply omit the ham from the recipe and consider adding a smoky cheese or spices such as smoked paprika to emulate the flavor profile that the ham provides.

How should I transport cheese balls for a party?

To transport, put the cheese balls in a sealed container and keep them cold in a cooler with ice packs. Bring extra coatings like crushed nuts or crackers to refresh the outside before serving, if needed.