Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls

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Are you a fan of comfort food? Do you love the rich, creamy taste of grits?

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Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls
Prep
45 min
Cook
45 min
Total
45 min
Servings
10

Method

  1. In a large Dutch oven, fill it two-thirds full with oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 360 degrees F.

  2. In a large heavy-bottomed skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Cook the ham until it turns brown, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the cooked ham to a large bowl using a slotted spoon.

  3. Add the grits and cheese to the bowl with the ham and stir them together until well combined.

  4. With wet hands, take about 1/4 cup of the grit mixture, shape it into a ball, and place it on a platter or large plate. Repeat this process until all the grit mixture is used.

  5. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, and cayenne. In separate shallow bowls, place the eggs and the panko breadcrumbs.

  6. Dip each grit ball into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, making sure it is fully coated.

  7. In batches, add the coated grit balls to the Dutch oven and fry them until they turn brown on all sides, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Remove the fried grit balls and place them on a sheet pan lined with a wire rack.

  8. Immediately sprinkle the fried grit balls with salt.

About this recipe

Are you a fan of comfort food? Do you love the rich, creamy taste of grits? If so, then you're in for a treat with these Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls! Imagine biting into a crispy, golden ball filled with gooey cheese, savory country ham, and the smooth texture of grits. It's a flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more.

The Perfect Combination

There's something magical about the combination of cheese, ham, and grits. It's like a symphony of flavors that come together to create a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. The creamy grits provide the perfect base for the salty, smoky ham, while the cheese adds a richness that takes it to the next level. It's the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.

A Crispy Delight

One of the best things about these Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls is the crispy exterior. Imagine biting into a ball that is perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, only to reveal a cheesy, ham-filled center. It's a texture contrast that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to every bite. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these grit balls are sure to impress.

Versatility at its Best

Not only are these Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, or make them the star of the show by pairing them with a fresh salad or a side of vegetables. They're even great for breakfast, served alongside eggs and bacon. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these grit balls are a crowd-pleaser.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses all work well in this recipe.

Can I make these grit balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the grit balls up until the frying step, then place them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, simply fry them until golden brown and crispy.

Can I freeze the leftover grit balls?

Definitely! Allow the grit balls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven until heated through.

Can I substitute the country ham with another type of meat?

If you're not a fan of country ham, you can certainly substitute it with cooked bacon, sausage, or even shredded chicken. The key is to choose a meat that pairs well with cheese and complements the flavors of the grits.

Can I make a vegetarian version of these grit balls?

Absolutely! Simply omit the country ham and replace it with your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions.

Are these grit balls gluten-free?

Unfortunately, no. The grits used in this recipe contain gluten. However, you can try using a gluten-free alternative, such as cornmeal or a gluten-free grits option, to make them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I bake these grit balls instead of frying them?

While frying gives the grit balls that irresistible crispy exterior, you can certainly bake them if you prefer a lighter option. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

How can I reheat the leftover grit balls?

To reheat the leftover grit balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for a quick and easy option.

In conclusion, Cheesy Country Ham Grit Balls are the ultimate comfort food. The combination of creamy grits, savory country ham, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these crispy delights are sure to impress. So go ahead and indulge in this delicious dish - your taste buds will thank you!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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