Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Christmas is a time for joy, family, and, of course, delicious food! One dish that has become a staple in my holiday gatherings is Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. These meatballs strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a festive get-together or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs not only taste amazing but also add a splash of color to your holiday table. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, ensuring that you can spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re wondering what makes Christmas Cranberry Meatballs a must-try this season, let’s dive into the reasons. First off, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer at a holiday party, a main dish with sides for a dinner gathering, or even as a snack during your favorite holiday movie marathon.
Another reason to add this recipe to your holiday lineup is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can easily prepare these meatballs without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the bold flavors of cranberry and garlic create a delicious fusion that even kids can’t resist!
“Absolutely loved these meatballs! They were a hit at our Christmas dinner. The combination of cranberry and meat had everyone asking for the recipe!” – A satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Creating these delightful Christmas Cranberry Meatballs is not only straightforward but also kind of fun! Here’s what to expect: you’ll start by mixing your ingredients in a large bowl, quickly mold them into bite-sized meatballs, and then bake them until golden brown. That’s it! In less than 45 minutes, you’ll transform a handful of ingredients into a festive dish that brims with flavor.
Gather these items:
- 1 pound ground meat (beef or pork)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to switch out the ground meat based on your preference or dietary requirements. Ground turkey or chicken would work just as well!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cranberry sauce, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well blended. Then shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they’re cooked through and browned.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
What to serve it with
When it comes to serving Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, pairing is key! These little bites are great on their own, but why not elevate your presentation? Consider serving them on a festive platter, alongside toothpicks for easy snacking. You can pair them with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal or a fresh green salad for a light, colorful touch. They also go wonderfully with crusty bread or festive grain salads.
How to store & freeze
After the holiday festivities, you might have some meatballs left over. No worries! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, just pop them back in the oven until heated through to maintain that delicious texture. For longer storage, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separate layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. Always remember to practice safe food handling techniques!
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your Christmas Cranberry Meatballs turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this can lead to tough meatballs.
- For even cooking, make sure all your meatballs are uniform in size.
- If you want a flavor boost, consider adding some chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture.
Creative twists
Ready to get a little creative? You can take these meatballs to the next level with various twists:
- Try adding a splash of orange zest or a pinch of cayenne for a citrusy kick.
- Swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed pretzels for an added crunch.
- For a heartier version, mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Common questions
-
How long does it take to prepare these meatballs?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking takes an additional 25-30 minutes, making this a quick holiday dish. -
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative could work. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is best, but you can also use the microwave. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (beef or pork) Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Can be swapped with crushed pretzels for added crunch.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 each egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to garnish Fresh parsley For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cranberry sauce, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well blended. Then shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they’re cooked through and browned.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
