Print

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Print Recipe

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive appetizer that perfectly combines juicy, savory meatballs with a tangy, sweet cranberry glaze. Easy to prepare and bursting with holiday flavors, this dish adds vibrant color and seasonal cheer to any holiday spread, making it ideal for parties, snacks, or part of a main course platter.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cranberry Glaze Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh cranberry sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about one inch in diameter for easy serving and perfect portions.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through and golden, about 7-10 minutes. Alternatively, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Prepare Cranberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberry sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, forming a glossy, flavorful glaze.
  5. Coat and Serve: Toss the cooked meatballs gently in the cranberry glaze until well coated. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish as desired for a festive presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh onion and garlic for deeper, more vibrant flavors.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender and avoid toughness.
  • Keep meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
  • Cook the cranberry glaze until thick enough to cling to the meatballs but avoid making it too syrupy.
  • Both skillet and oven cooking methods are effective; choose based on preferred texture and convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas appetizer, cranberry meatballs, holiday snacks, festive meatballs, quick holiday recipe

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/quick-christmas-cranberry-meatballs/