Quick cranberry meatballs recipe for a festive Christmas dish

Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

ByCasey Monroe

introduction

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a delicious and festive dish that brings a burst of flavor to your holiday table. These meatballs are easy to prepare and make a great appetizer or main course. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs, making them a favorite during Christmas celebrations.

why make this recipe

This recipe is perfect for the holiday season due to its quick preparation and delightful flavors. Quick Cranberry Meatballs offer a nice balance of sweet and savory that pleases everyone. They are also easy to serve at parties, making them a great choice for gatherings with family and friends. Plus, they require simple ingredients that you can often find at home.

how to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce.
  6. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are all coated.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs warm or at room temperature. They are great on a platter for parties or family gatherings. You can also place them in a slow cooker set to warm and let guests help themselves. Pair them with toothpicks for easy eating and consider adding some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

how to store Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for longer storage. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs

  • For extra flavor, add some chopped herbs like parsley or rosemary to the meat mixture.
  • If you prefer a bit of heat, add a splash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce mix.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
  • Test the first meatball by cooking it before baking the rest to check seasoning.

variation

You can easily make vegetarian meatballs by substituting ground meat with plant-based meat or black beans. Use oats instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. The cranberry sauce can also be replaced with a different fruit preserve, such as raspberry or apricot, to switch up the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make Quick Cranberry Meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking them.

2. Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
Absolutely! You can use frozen meatballs and just coat them in the cranberry sauce before baking, following the package instructions for cooking.

3. What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also make a great sandwich filling!