Juggling holiday parties and family gatherings can be overwhelming, but your appetizers don’t have to be! Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are ready in minutes, are surprisingly healthy, and boast a sweet and savory flavor that will disappear in a flash. I created this recipe after countless requests from friends raving about the cranberry sauce I make. Now, that same vibrant taste can be yours in a delightful meatball form!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, bless her heart, always had something bubbling on the stove during the holidays. While her recipes were legendary, they sometimes took days to prepare. This recipe for Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs captures her spirit of warmth and deliciousness but in a fraction of the time. It’s like a little bit of grandma’s holiday magic, only you can sneak in a nap afterward. This recipe embodies the joy of the season without chaining you to the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce.
- Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Best Results
For extra flavorful meatballs, brown the ground beef in a skillet before combining it with the other ingredients. This adds a deeper, richer taste. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made meatballs but make sure to choose a good quality brand without too many fillers. To prevent the meatballs from drying out, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture. Also, be sure to let the cranberry sauce simmer gently. A rapid boil can burn the sugar and make the sauce bitter. Finally, don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce to your liking. If you prefer a tarter sauce, reduce the amount of sugar. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a touch of heat. Remember to check the internal temperature of the meatballs to ensure they’re fully cooked, reaching at least 160°F (71°C).
Serving Suggestions
Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer when served with toothpicks on a festive platter. For a heartier meal, serve them over rice or mashed potatoes. The sweet and savory combination pairs exceptionally well with both. You can also add them to a slow cooker to keep them warm throughout a holiday gathering, making them perfect for grazing. For a more sophisticated presentation, garnish the meatballs with fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Consider serving them alongside other holiday appetizers like cheese and crackers, vegetable dip, or mini quiches to create a well-rounded spread. Don’t forget to offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as Dijon mustard or a spicy aioli, to cater to different taste preferences.
Conclusion
Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are more than just an appetizer; they are a symbol of holiday cheer, bringing warmth and flavor to your celebrations. Their ease of preparation allows you more time to spend with loved ones, while their delicious taste will have everyone reaching for seconds. This recipe is designed to be fuss-free and adaptable, ensuring that it fits perfectly into your busy holiday schedule. Whether you’re hosting a grand gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these meatballs will add a festive touch to your meal. This simple yet elegant dish is destined to become a new tradition, creating lasting memories and delicious experiences for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and let the warmth of Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs fill your home with joy!
Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce.
- Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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