Pineapple Ham Balls

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Servings: 4 Difficulty: Advanced
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Sweet and savory baked ham meatballs glazed with a tangy pineapple brown sugar sauce
Pineapple Ham Balls recipe image
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Pineapple Ham Balls

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4 Calories: 261.0

Description

These Pineapple Ham Balls are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. The mixture of ground ham and pork creates a tender, juicy meatball that stands up beautifully to the rich, sticky glaze. Brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard combine with reserved pineapple juice to create a complex sauce that caramelizes slightly during baking. The juicy pineapple slices at the bottom of the dish keep the meatballs moist and add a fruity brightness that cuts through the richness of the pork. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for parties or potlucks. Serve warm with the extra sauce spooned over the top for a comforting, homemade meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground ham, ground pork, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
  3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  4. Drain the pineapple, reserving exactly 1/2 cup of the juice. Set the pineapple slices aside.
  5. Form the chilled meat mixture into 10 equal-sized balls. Set aside.
  6. In a saucepan, combine the reserved 1/2 cup pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard.
  7. Cook and stir over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat.
  8. Arrange the pineapple slices in the bottom of an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking dish.
  9. Place one ham ball on top of each pineapple slice.
  10. Pour the sugar-vinegar mixture evenly over the ham balls and pineapple.
  11. Cover the baking dish with foil or a lid.
  12. Bake for 1 hour, or until the ham balls are thoroughly cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160ðF.
  13. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce over the top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 261.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.5g10%
Saturated Fat 2.2g12%
Cholesterol 86.4mg29%
Sodium 2350.8mg98%
Total Carbohydrate 2.0g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 2.0g
Protein 45.0g90%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Substitutions: You can use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned, but reduce the reserved juice amount if needed as fresh pineapple may yield less liquid. Apple cider vinegar works best for the vinegar component.

Tip: For a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce mixture for an additional 5 minutes after dissolving the sugar, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.

Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the meat mixture for a warm spice note that complements the pineapple.

Keywords: ham balls, pineapple, ground pork, brown sugar, glazed meatballs, holiday recipe, party food, swedish meatballs, ham and pineapple, baked appetizer, comfort food, easy dinner
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