introduction
Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful and easy dish perfect for Christmas gatherings. They offer a mix of savory and sweet flavors that can please everyone at the party. These meatballs make a great appetizer or a main dish, and they are simple to prepare.
why make this recipe
Making Quick Cranberry Meatballs is a great idea for any holiday occasion. They are quick to cook, and you will not need many ingredients. This recipe saves time and is packed with flavor. Moreover, they are easy to serve to a crowd, making them ideal for parties.
how to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 can cranberry sauce (about 15 ounces)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, onions, milk, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce together. Pour this sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs
You can serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. They are a great finger food for parties, or you can serve them over rice for a satisfying meal. Garnish with extra parsley for a festive touch.
how to store Quick Cranberry Meatballs
To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs
- For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- You can substitute ground beef with chicken or plant-based protein for a different flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the meatballs to keep them juicy.
variation (if any)
You can change the flavor by using different sauces. For example, try using sweet chili sauce instead of barbecue sauce for a sweet and spicy twist. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Quick Cranberry Meatballs?
It takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and bake them when you are ready to serve.
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just cook them according to the package instructions and add the cranberry and barbecue sauce for flavor.
Quick Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Can substitute with chicken or plant-based protein.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
- 1 large egg
- to taste Salt and pepper
Sauce
- 1 can cranberry sauce (about 15 ounces)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Can substitute with sweet chili sauce for a variation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, onions, milk, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking
- In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce together. Pour this sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy, either on a platter with toothpicks or over rice for a main dish.
