Introduction
There’s something about the holiday season that calls for heartwarming dishes to share with family and friends. These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet that will elevate your festive gatherings. Juicy meatballs smothered in a rich and tangy cranberry sauce create a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with rice for a comforting main dish, these meatballs are sure to impress your loved ones and become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking these delicious meatballs.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and carefully place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce until the mixture is fully blended, creating a flavorful sauce for the meatballs.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they’re generously coated for a mouthwatering flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You’ll know they’re ready when they are beautifully golden brown and fragrant!
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired, adding a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve warm as a delightful appetizer, or over fluffy rice for a comforting main dish that everyone will love.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these meatballs by adding your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an extra layer of flavor. If you want a bit of spice, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes! These meatballs can also be made ahead of time; simply store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve. Don’t forget to save some extra cranberry sauce for drizzling over the top!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe incorporates simple yet effective cooking techniques such as mixing, shaping, and baking. When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Shaping them evenly helps ensure they cook uniformly. Baking allows the meatballs to develop a nice crust while keeping them juicy inside, soaking up all the delightful flavors from the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a great lean alternative, keeping the meatballs lighter without sacrificing flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze beautifully for up to three months.
What should I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them on toothpicks for a fun party snack!
Conclusion
These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are not only easy to make but also bring a wonderful festive flair to your holiday menu. With their rich flavors and juicy texture, they are bound to become a cherished recipe in your seasonal repertoire. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and watch as they disappear from the table faster than you can say “holiday cheer!” Happy cooking!