Name: Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 40 min

how to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce and BBQ sauce.
Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Make sure to mix the meatball mixture thoroughly for better flavor.
Use a cookie scoop to ensure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The cranberry sauce adds a festive touch, making them perfect for holiday gatherings. They are easy to make and will impress your guests!

how to serve Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Serve these meatballs as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair well with mashed potatoes or rice. Add some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

how to store Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to three months.

tips to make Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

For added flavor, try adding some minced garlic or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
If you want a tangier sauce, mix in some vinegar or hot sauce with the cranberry and BBQ sauce.

variation

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
Swap out the cranberry sauce for a fruit of your choice, like apple or peach, for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Information:

Storage and Reheating

To reheat, place the meatballs in the microwave for a minute or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to add chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meatball mixture for extra flavor. You can also make them mini-sized for bite-sized snacks or appetizers.

Disclaimer:

Always check for allergies, especially if serving to a large group. Adjust ingredients accordingly to fit dietary restrictions.

why make this recipe

These meatballs are a fun twist on traditional holiday recipes. They are simple to prepare and will bring joy to your holiday table with their unique blend of flavors.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare and shape the meatballs in advance, then store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
What side dishes go well with these meatballs?
- They pair nicely with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
- The meatballs should be cooked through and no longer pink inside. You can use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use a different type of sauce?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces, like a honey mustard or sweet chili sauce.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
- To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.