Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an essential dish for holiday gatherings. These delightful meatballs are coated in a festive cranberry sauce that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting appetizer, this recipe will certainly impress your guests and leave them craving more!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

There are numerous reasons to adore this festive cranberry meatballs recipe. First, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy holiday schedules. The combination of sweet and sour flavors creates a unique taste that pairs beautifully with savory meat. Additionally, they can be served as appetizers at holiday parties, making them an ideal choice for gatherings. The use of cranberries not only adds flavor but also a vibrant color to your table. Plus, these meatballs are versatile; you can use beef, turkey, or chicken depending on your preference. Lastly, they can be made ahead of time, saving you precious moments on the day of your event, and they are a hit among both kids and adults!

Ingredients for Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Gather these items:

• 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

How to Make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Step 3: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
5. Step 5: Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring each one is coated.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Step 7: Serve warm as an appetizer.

Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

• For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey instead of beef.
• Make sure to chop the parsley finely for even distribution in the meat mixture.
• Check that the meatballs are fully cooked by using a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Using fresh cranberries can elevate the flavor more than canned sauces; just cook them down with some sugar.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

There are many delightful ways to serve these cranberry meatballs appetizers. They make a fantastic addition to a festive buffet or can be served as a standalone dish with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Pair them with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them alongside cranberry sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

To store your easy cranberry meatballs for Christmas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. These meatballs can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?

The key is in the balance of flavors. The combination of the sweet and sour cranberry sauce with savory meat creates a delightful harmony that stands out. Ensuring that you mix the ingredients well is also crucial to keep the meatballs tender.

Can I make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to bake. This makes them a fantastic option for holiday meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?

One common mistake is overcooking the meatballs, which can lead to dryness. Make sure to monitor them closely while baking. Another tip is to ensure your meat mixture is not too wet or too dry; adjust breadcrumbs as necessary for the right consistency.

Variations of Christmas Cranberry Meatballs You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:
1. Use ground turkey for a healthier take on traditional Christmas meatballs with cranberry sauce.
2. Add spices like ginger or nutmeg to introduce a warm flavor profile.
3. For a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
These variations can make your holiday gatherings even more festive!

For more delicious recipes, check out our appetizers category or try making spaghetti with garlic and oil for a delightful side dish. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider our veggie burgers with avocado green harissa.

Irresistible Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

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Delightful sweet and savory meatballs with a festive cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 30 min
• Total Time: 45 min
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring each one is coated.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Serve warm as an appetizer.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg