Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing together savory and sweet flavors that perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. These little bites are not only perfect for festive gatherings but also simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The blend of ground meat and the vibrant sweetness of cranberry sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and unexpectedly exciting. When you serve these meatballs, you’ll wow your guests with their rich flavor and beautiful presentation, making them an instant holiday favorite.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are plenty of reasons to dive into this recipe, and chief among them is its sheer versatility. Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for last-minute entertaining or cozy family dinners. They fall firmly into the budget-friendly category; with just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, the unique combination of flavors means they appeal to both kids and adults—a rarity in the world of appetizers!
"We made these cranberry meatballs for our holiday party, and they were gone in minutes! The sauce adds a perfect touch of sweetness that everyone loved." – Emily R.
Step-by-step overview
Making Christmas Cranberry Meatballs might sound complex, but the process could not be simpler. You start by mixing together your ingredients, shaping them into meatballs, and letting the oven work its magic. This dish comes together in no time, and not only is it delicious, but it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. From preparation to plating, you’ll be amazed at how stress-free it is.
Gather these items
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to experiment with the type of meat you prefer, or even substitute with plant-based options for a vegetarian twist.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked and browned.
- Serve warm as appetizers that everyone will love!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, creativity goes a long way. For a festive presentation, arrange the meatballs on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and orange slices. Pair them with toothpicks for easy eating. As for sides, consider serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing winter salad to balance the richness of the meat.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Christmas Cranberry Meatballs is a breeze. After your gathering, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. In the fridge, they’ll stay good for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, pop them in the freezer instead. They can be stored for up to three months; just make sure to label the package with the date for easy identification.
Pro chef tips
To elevate your meatballs even further, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs or adding minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a spicier profile, a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can bring a delightful kick. Lastly, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness of the sauce—if you love things a bit tangier, add some apple cider vinegar to balance the flavor.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out traditional ground meat for chicken or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter alternative. You can also experiment with different sauces—think teriyaki or sweet and sour—if you want a change from the festive cranberry sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, mix feta cheese into the meatball mixture and drizzle them with a yogurt-based sauce after baking.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make these meatballs?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 45 minutes—25-30 minutes of baking time plus preparation.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you’re gluten-free, consider using ground oats or almond flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
Can these meatballs be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve!
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs will become a staple in your holiday repertoire, providing a delightful blend of flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy the merry moments they help create!
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or pork) Feel free to substitute with plant-based options for a vegetarian twist.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
For the sauce
- 1 cup cranberry sauce Adjust sweetness as desired with apple cider vinegar.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked and browned.
Serving
- Serve warm as appetizers, garnished with fresh parsley and orange slices.
