Looking for a festive dish that’s sure to impress your guests this holiday season? Christmas Cranberry Meatballs might just be the standout recipe you’re searching for.
These meatballs are not just a culinary treat; they’re a delightful blend of savory and sweet, featuring a rich combination of flavors that are perfect for celebrating the season. The juicy meatballs are paired with a luscious cranberry sauce, adding a pop of vibrant color and taste that embodies holiday joy. The tender texture, combined with the slight crunch of breadcrumbs and the sprinkle of Parmesan, makes each bite a small yet flavorful celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for busy holiday prep!
- Made with pantry staples: Simple ingredients mean easy assembly.
- Perfect for entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
- Customizable: Adjust flavors to your liking for a personal touch.
Ingredients for Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions of Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the ground meat with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cranberry sauce and soy sauce.
- Once the meatballs are done, pour the cranberry mixture over them on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for another 5 minutes to coat them in the sauce.
Tips for Success
- Don’t over-mix: Overworking the meat can make the meatballs tough; mix just until combined.
- Experiment with flavors: Add in some minced garlic or spices to the meat mixture for an extra flavor punch.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer; meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe.
Substitutions & Variations of Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
To Make It Gluten-Free:
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Variations:
Add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick, or toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts for added texture.
Storage Instructions of Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: These meatballs freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven when ready to serve!
Make-Ahead: Shape the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Can I use chicken instead of beef or turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works great and offers a lighter option.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a festive platter with toothpicks for appetizers.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings.
Final Toughts
These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a must-try for anyone wanting to delight their family and guests this season. They combine the sweetness of cranberries and the savory flavor of perfectly cooked meatballs into one delectable dish. So go ahead, try this recipe, and watch how it becomes a favorite at your holiday table! Don’t forget to leave your comments and a star rating once you try it out; your feedback helps others find the joy of cooking during this festive time.
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Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Delightful blend of savory and sweet meatballs paired with a luscious cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cranberry sauce and soy sauce.
- Once the meatballs are done, pour the cranberry mixture over them on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for another 5 minutes to coat them in the sauce.
Notes
Don’t over-mix to prevent tough meatballs. Experiment with flavors by adding minced garlic or spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None