introduction
I like this simple holiday appetizer. It mixes beef with sweet cranberry sauce and a bit of barbecue sauce. If you enjoy bright holiday flavors, also try the chewy cranberry-orange cookies for a sweet finish.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick, festive, and easy to share. You can make the meatballs ahead and warm them before guests arrive. The cranberry sauce adds a bright, sweet note that pairs well with savory beef.
how to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Follow the simple steps below to mix, bake, and toss the meatballs in a cranberry barbecue glaze. The result is a warm, colorful appetizer that guests will enjoy.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a separate saucepan, mix the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce and heat until just warm.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the sauce mixture and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Serve warm on a platter with toothpicks. They work well as an appetizer or a party snack. You can also serve them over rice or mashed potatoes for a main dish.
how to store Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Cool the meatballs, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or heat gently on the stove in the sauce.
tips to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
– Use small, even meatballs so they cook at the same time.
– Do not overmix the meat to keep them tender.
– If the mixture feels wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
– Warm the sauce gently to avoid burning the sugar in the cranberry sauce.
variation (if any)
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or pork. Try adding a teaspoon of mustard to the sauce for a tangy kick. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat or firm lentil balls.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Bake the meatballs, cool them, and store in the fridge. Reheat in the sauce before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes. Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a tray, then move to a freezer bag. Thaw and warm in the sauce when ready.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?
A: You can, but cook them with sugar to make a sauce first so the texture and sweetness match the recipe.
Q: Are these spicy?
A: No. They are mild and sweet. Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze if you want heat.
Conclusion
For an alternative method and more ideas for cranberry meatballs, see the slow-cooker cranberry meatballs recipe at The Kitchn.