Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests this holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! My Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) have become a beloved tradition in my home. They are not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings with family and friends. The combination of sweet cranberry sauce and savory meatballs is simply irresistible!

These meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, and I love how versatile they are. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a comforting meal during the chilly months, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delightful meatballs ready in under an hour.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty treat, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them for when you’re ready to bake!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of cranberry sauce and spices creates an unforgettable taste that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) is a breeze! You’ll find that they consist of simple and wholesome items that are probably already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
• 1 ½ pounds very lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (like panko)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or packaged)
• 1 cup tomato ketchup
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that balances well with sweetness.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to give your meatballs a unique flavor twist.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegan alternative.

How to Make Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite is full of flavor. Don’t be shy—use your hands to combine everything thoroughly!

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, use your hands to form small meatballs about one inch in diameter. This size allows them to cook evenly and makes them easy to pop into your mouth as an appetizer. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Baking helps keep them moist while allowing those delicious flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine cranberry sauce, tomato ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until heated through and well combined. This sweet-tangy sauce will give your meatballs that extra zing!

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once your meatballs are done baking, gently toss them in the warm sauce until they are fully coated. Serve immediately on a platter garnished with additional parsley if desired. Your guests will be raving about these Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)! Enjoy each moment of laughter and joy around the table—happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Making these quick cranberry meatballs is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Prep in Advance: Prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. This not only saves you time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Use a Cookie Scoop: For consistently sized meatballs, use a cookie scoop. This ensures even cooking and makes your presentation more appealing.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle!

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before forming the meatballs to adjust seasonings like salt and pepper. This will elevate the flavor profile and ensure they are perfectly seasoned.

• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to get creative with your sauce! Adding different herbs or spices to the cranberry sauce can customize it to your taste.

How to Serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Presenting your quick cranberry meatballs in an inviting way can enhance their appeal. Here are some delightful ideas for serving them at your next holiday gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling some finely chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch and fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry Relish: A small dollop of cranberry relish on top adds both color and an extra layer of tangy sweetness that complements the meatballs beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting and flavorful contrast that pairs well with the sweet and savory meatballs.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a lovely crunch and bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the sauce, creating a harmonious plate.
• Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans sautéed with almonds offers texture and a nutty flavor that enhances your meal’s overall experience.
• Cranberry Spinach Salad: A refreshing spinach salad tossed with cranberries, nuts, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness to your table and complements the richness of the meatballs.

Enjoy making these quick cranberry meatballs this holiday season! They’re sure to become a favorite at your festive gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Cranberry Meatballs recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious appetizers without the last-minute rush. You can prepare them in advance and either store them or freeze them for future gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to separate layers of meatballs with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place frozen meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, simmer in a saucepan with some extra cranberry sauce over medium heat until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will work well with the other ingredients while keeping the dish light and tasty.

How do I make homemade cranberry sauce for Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

You can make homemade cranberry sauce by cooking fresh cranberries with sugar and water on the stovetop until they burst and thicken. It adds a fresh flavor!

Can I add other spices to the Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano, or even add garlic powder for an extra kick of flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

The total time is about 35 minutes, making it an easy option even during busy holiday preparations!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Quick Cranberry Meatballs this holiday season! They are not only delicious but also bring a touch of warmth and festivity to any gathering. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and most importantly, savoring every bite. Happy cooking!