Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe
The holiday season is the perfect time to bring family and friends together over delicious, festive food. Cranberry meatballs are a classic Christmas appetizer that combines savory flavors with a touch of sweetness, making them a crowd favorite at any gathering. These bite sized treats are easy to make and full of holiday cheer, adding a special touch to your party spread.
What makes these cranberry meatballs truly stand out is the balance between the rich, juicy meat and the bright, tangy cranberry sauce. The sauce adds a festive flair and complements the meat perfectly, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs are sure to become a holiday staple.
Why You Need This Recipe
This cranberry meatballs recipe is a must-have for your holiday menu because it combines classic comfort food with festive flavors that everyone loves. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory meat, creating a dish that is both satisfying and memorable.
In addition, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. You can make the meatballs ahead of time and warm them up when guests arrive. Whether you want a quick appetizer or a delicious addition to your Christmas feast, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.
Ingredients
This festive cranberry meatballs recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful holiday favorite. Here is what you will need along with calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound (450g) | 960 |
| Bread crumbs | ½ cup (60g) | 200 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ medium (75g) | 30 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Cranberry sauce | 1 cup (240g) | 350 |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | 100 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | 15 |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon | 3 |
Total calories (approximate for whole recipe): 1,858
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
While the meatballs bake, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm cranberry sauce over them. Gently toss to coat all the meatballs evenly. Serve warm and enjoy this festive favorite with your loved ones.
Pro Tips
Use lean ground beef to keep the meatballs juicy but not greasy. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
To ensure even cooking, try to make all the meatballs the same size. Using a cookie scoop can help with this. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as it can make the meatballs dense.
For extra flavor, let the meatballs rest in the cranberry sauce for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to soak in and enhances the taste. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Cranberry meatballs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls, making a hearty holiday meal. They also complement fresh green salads or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors.
For toppings, try adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. A drizzle of extra cranberry sauce or a touch of tangy mustard can enhance the flavor even more. These simple additions elevate your dish and make it perfect for festive occasions.
Conclusion
Best Christmas cranberry meatballs bring together the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that brighten any holiday gathering. This easy recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meatballs coated in a festive cranberry sauce that will impress your guests and family alike.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks. Add these meatballs to your Christmas menu to enjoy a delicious, crowd pleasing appetizer or main course that embodies the spirit of the season.
