There’s something undeniably festive about the aroma of Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs wafting through the air. Imagine a sweet and tangy sauce enveloping tender meatballs, creating a delicious bite that practically dances on your taste buds. Cheddar and Ham Christmas Trees These little morsels are perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even those cozy nights in front of the fireplace, where every mouthful feels like a warm hug.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
- How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?
- What can I serve with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my family always had a buffet-style Christmas party where everyone brought their favorite dish. My aunt’s Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs were the star of the show. The moment they hit the table, they vanished faster than you could say “Santa Claus.” They’re more than just food; they’re a tradition that brings back so many fond memories with every delightful bite. easy Christmas cheese ball.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs require minimal prep time, making them an effortless addition to your holiday menu
- A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering experience everyone will enjoy
- Their vibrant color makes them visually appealing on any platter, adding festive cheer to your table
- Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they’re versatile enough to suit any occasion
I still remember that one holiday where we ran out of these meatballs before everyone had their fill. The frantic search for more was both hilarious and heartwarming—it’s amazing how food can bring people together in laughter and joy. Grinch Sugar Cookies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep the meatballs juicy without excess grease.
- Cranberry Sauce: Opt for a smooth cranberry sauce for an even coating that clings perfectly to the meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
- Eggs: One or two eggs act as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté it beforehand for extra flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the cranberry sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all the flavors in this dish.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a bright touch and freshness as a garnish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Here’s how to whip up these delightful Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs: For more inspiration, check out this Thick And Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients on your countertop for easy access.
Mix the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop for uniformity), form small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a greased baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Add Cranberry Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine baked meatballs with cranberry sauce. Stir gently until everything is coated and heated through.
Serve with Flair!: Transfer meatballs to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy picking!
And there you have it—Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs that are bound to steal hearts at any gathering! The blend of sweet cranberry sauce and savory meat is like Christmas magic on a plate. Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets Enjoy sharing these tasty bites with loved ones while reminiscing about cherished festive moments!
You Must Know
- Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive hit at any gathering
- These juicy morsels burst with flavor and aroma, making them impossible to resist
- Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients and forming them into balls. Bake until golden brown, then simmer in the cranberry sauce for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spices like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist. You can even toss in chopped nuts for crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring they stay moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cranberries if possible; they elevate the dish with their tartness
- Make sure not to overcrowd your baking sheet to ensure even cooking
- Allow meatballs to rest post-cooking for juiciness that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Memories of my family’s holiday parties flood back every time I make these meatballs—everyone would fight over the last piece, creating joyful chaos around the table.
FAQ
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Just cook them according to package instructions before adding to the cranberry sauce.
How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice cereal.
What can I serve with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?
Pair them with toothpicks for easy snacking or serve over rice for a complete meal.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 meatballs 1x
Description
Delight your guests this holiday season with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, a festive dish that combines tender meatballs enveloped in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these flavorful bites are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, they’re an effortless addition to any holiday gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine baked meatballs with cranberry sauce until heated through.
- Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
