Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful twist on the traditional meatball recipe, infusing the savory flavor of ground meat with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce. This dish is often associated with festive gatherings, making it a perfect choice for holiday parties, cozy family dinners, or even as a standout appetizer at any gathering. The combination of tangy cranberry sauce and tender meatballs creates a festive explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine juicy meatballs smothered in a rich, sweet-sour cranberry glaze. These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs aren’t just tasty; they’re also incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal option for home cooks of all skill levels. They’re budget-friendly, and everyone will love the explosion of flavors. Plus, they’re the perfect finger food for holiday parties!
“These meatballs are the highlight of every Christmas gathering! The cranberry sauce adds such a festive touch. My kids can’t get enough of them!” – Happy Home Cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Creating Christmas Cranberry Meatballs requires just a few straightforward steps, ensuring you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities. Begin by mixing your ingredients for the meatballs, form them into bite-sized delights, and then let the oven do the work. Finally, drench those tender meatballs in a sweet and tangy sauce for a satisfying finish.
What You’ll Need
To make these mouthwatering meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to experiment with ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives if you’re looking for variations!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce until well blended.
- Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and beautifully browned.
- Serve warm as delicious appetizers.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking during parties. Pair them with crusty bread for a heartier meal, or offer a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds both color and a burst of flavor!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. Always ensure food safety by heating leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Keep the Ingredients Fresh: Use fresh ground meat for the best flavor.
- Chill the Mixture: If you find the meat mixture is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will make forming the meatballs easier.
- Taste Test: Before baking, consider cooking a small piece of the meat mixture in a skillet to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Recipe Variations
Get creative! You can switch up the flavor profile by adding finely chopped herbs or spices to the meat mixture. Want a kick? Try adding a bit of red pepper flakes. For an even sweeter sauce, mix in some orange juice or zest with the cranberry sauce. You could also serve them over rice or noodles for a different dish entirely.
FAQs
What kind of ground meat can I use?
You can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken, depending on your preference.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs, place them on the baking sheet, and cover them in the cranberry sauce mixture. Just pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed gluten-free crackers for a delicious alternative.
What’s the prep time for these meatballs?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus 25–30 minutes of baking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe to whip up!
By indulging in these Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, you’re treating yourself and your friends and family to a delightful recipe that embodies the joy of the holiday season. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, love, and plenty of good food!
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce until well blended.
- Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and beautifully browned.
- Serve warm as delicious appetizers.
