Plate of Christmas cranberry meatballs garnished with parsley

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful treat for any holiday gathering. They combine the savory flavors of meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a dish that everyone will love. These meatballs are easy to make, and they bring a festive touch to your table. Perfect as an appetizer, they are sure to impress your guests and fill them with holiday cheer.

how to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
  3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Brush the sauce mixture over the meatballs.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
  7. Serve warm as an appetizer.

how to serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Serve your Christmas Cranberry Meatballs warm, straight from the oven. They make a great centerpiece for your appetizer table. You can place toothpicks in them for easy serving. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

how to store Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

If you have leftovers, you can store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers.

tips to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

  • Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • If you want a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
  • For added flavor, you can mix in chopped onions or fresh herbs.
  • Make sure not to overbake the meatballs to keep them juicy.

variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This will give the meatballs a lighter flavor. You can also try using different sauces, like teriyaki or sweet chili, to change the taste profile.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely! If you want to save time, you can use pre-cooked frozen meatballs and just coat them with the cranberry sauce before baking.

What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are great on their own but can also be served with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.