Plate of quick cranberry meatballs garnished for Christmas dinner

Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

ByCasey Monroe

introduction

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these meatballs are easy to make and will impress your guests. They are a fantastic addition to any Christmas table.

why make this recipe

This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy cooks during the holidays. Second, the combination of cranberry sauce and meatballs adds a unique twist that many people enjoy. Lastly, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and kids alike.

how to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup chili sauce

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
  6. In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce and chili sauce. Heat it over medium heat until warm.
  7. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan and stir to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.
  8. Serve warm.

how to serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are best served warm. You can place them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. They pair well with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a bed of salad.

how to store Quick Cranberry Meatballs

After cooling, you can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, freeze them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.

tips to make Quick Cranberry Meatballs

  • Use a mix of ground meats for added flavor.
  • If you want a bit more spice, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
  • Make sure the meatballs are evenly sized to ensure they cook uniformly.
  • For a sweeter flavor, use homemade cranberry sauce instead of store-bought.

variation

You can easily switch things up by using chicken or pork instead of beef or turkey. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or chickpeas in place of meat.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: What can I serve with these meatballs?
A: They go well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even in a sandwich.

Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes! Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.