Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a perfect dish to impress your holiday guests. They are not only flavorful but also easy to make. These meatballs combine the savory taste of meat with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry sauce, making them a delightful appetizer for any festive gathering. Plus, they are quick to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday cheer.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, mix cranberry sauce, ketchup, and soy sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the cranberry sauce mixture and serve as appetizers.
How to Serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Serve the Christmas Cranberry Meatballs warm as an appetizer at your holiday party. You can present them on a platter, garnishing with extra parsley for a festive touch. They go well with toothpicks for easy serving, allowing your guests to grab them effortlessly while mingling.
How to Store Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
If you have any leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic or herbs into the meat mixture.
- To cut down on preparation time, you can make the meatballs a day ahead and bake them right before your gathering.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less cranberry sauce based on your preference.
Variation
You can switch up the meat by using turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, adding chopped nuts like walnuts can give the meatballs an extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs for this recipe. Just thaw them before tossing them in the cranberry sauce.
What can I serve with the meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even as a filling in sandwiches.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce can add a personal touch and unique flavor to your meatballs.
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delightful meatballs infused with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, mix cranberry sauce, ketchup, and soy sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the cranberry sauce mixture and serve as appetizers.
Notes
For added flavor, mix in garlic or herbs into the meat mixture. Prepare the meatballs a day ahead for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
