Bourbon Ham Balls Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large bowl, combine ground ham, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, and spices. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• STEP 2.Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the ham balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• STEP 3.In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy, about 5 minutes.
• STEP 4.Brush the bourbon glaze over the ham balls, making sure to coat each one evenly.
• STEP 5.Bake the ham balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
• STEP 6.Remove from the oven and let the ham balls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
• STEP 7.Serve the bourbon ham balls as an appetizer with toothpicks or alongside a salad for a main course.
• STEP 8.Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to use ground ham that is not too lean, as it will result in dry ham balls.
• If you prefer a stronger bourbon flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon to the glaze before brushing it onto the ham balls.
• For a sweeter glaze, you can increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe.
• To make the ham balls ahead of time, you can shape them and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
• These ham balls can also be frozen after baking. Simply cool them completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Storage and Serving

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the ham balls in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Serve the bourbon ham balls as an appetizer with toothpicks or alongside a salad for a main course.