Quick and festive, Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings. These bite-sized delights meld savory meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a dish that’s not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, these meatballs are sure to make your season brighter.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250
- Protein: 16 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 300 mg
Why Make This Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. The sweet-tart cranberry sauce combines perfectly with the hearty flavors of ground beef, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, fitting right into your busy holiday schedule. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these meatballs are sure to impress.
How to Make Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a nice caramelization as they bake.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should feel moist but not overly sticky.
Step 3: Shaping
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet. Make sure to give them a little space as they will expand during cooking.
Step 4: Saucing
In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this delectable sauce over the meatballs evenly, making sure each one is coated beautifully.
Step 5: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). They should be browned and bubbling in the sauce.
Step 6: Serving
Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve them warm. You can garnish them with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
These meatballs shine as an appetizer or party snack. Serve them with toothpicks for easy eating, or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a main course. Pair with festive drinks, and you have a perfect holiday treat!
How to Store Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, mix a teaspoon of hot sauce or chili powder into the meat mixture.
- Ensure meatballs are evenly spaced on the baking sheet to maintain their shape and cook evenly.
- Use finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
Delicious Variations
- Turkey Cranberry Meatballs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Vegan Version: Use a mixture of lentils and quinoa as a meat substitute, binding it with a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry mixture for a spicy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately until you are ready to bake them. -
Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute work well in this recipe. -
Q: How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C). -
Q: Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
A: Definitely! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor even more. -
Q: What sides pair well with these meatballs?
A: Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are an easy, delicious addition to your holiday celebrations. With their savory-sweet flavor and simple preparation, these meatballs bring joy to your table and are perfect for any gathering. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your guests with this festive treat! Enjoy the warmth of the holiday season with every bite!
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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Quick and festive, these bite-sized meatballs meld savory flavors with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the meatballs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Remove from oven and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs. Ensure meatballs are evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
