why make this recipe
This dish is bright, sweet, and easy. The cranberry sauce gives a holiday feel. You can make the meatballs ahead and heat them at the party. They work well as an appetizer or a small plate.
introduction
This recipe for Christmas Cranberry Meatballs mixes simple ingredients you likely have. It cooks fast in the oven and the sauce is easy to stir and pour. If you like make-ahead ideas, see this make-ahead breakfast casserole ideas for more prep tips.
how to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Make the meatballs first, then make the sauce. Coat the meatballs with the sauce and bake. Check the meatballs for doneness and serve warm.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into bite-sized meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve warm as appetizers.
how to serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Serve them on a platter with toothpicks. They pair well with crackers, small rolls, or rice. Keep a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping.
how to store Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Cool the meatballs to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave in short bursts.
tips to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- Use lean ground meat to reduce splatter.
- Don’t overmix the meat; mix until just combined.
- Make uniform meatballs so they cook evenly.
- If sauce gets too thick, stir in a little water or broth.
- For a softer meatball, soak breadcrumbs in a tablespoon of milk before mixing.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Make them in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours for a hands-off option.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a different flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Bake them, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen cranberry sauce?
A: Yes. Thaw it first and stir it smooth before mixing with other sauce ingredients.
Q: How do I know the meatballs are cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. They should reach 160°F for beef or turkey. Cut one open to check if you don’t have a thermometer.
Q: Can I freeze these meatballs?
A: Yes. Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen, adding a little extra sauce to prevent drying.
Conclusion
For another easy cranberry meatball idea, try this Cranberry Meatballs (Slow Cooker) – Dinner at the Zoo recipe for a slow-cooker version you can set and forget.
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into bite-sized meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.