Introduction
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs! Perfectly tender and bursting with flavor, these festive bites are the ideal addition to your holiday spread. With a delightful blend of savory and sweet, they bring the holiday spirit to life in every mouthful. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a cozy family meal, these meatballs are sure to impress as a delicious appetizer or main dish!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the perfect baking environment for those delightful meatballs!
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated, creating a flavorful mixture.
- With clean hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar. This sweet and tangy sauce will coat your meatballs beautifully.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs, allowing them to soak up that delicious glaze as they bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly, turning golden and aromatic.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired, for that festive touch that brightens up the table!
Notes or Tips
These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and make for a quick and easy snack or meal. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe demonstrates a few essential cooking techniques. The mixing process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while baking the meatballs helps them retain their moisture, resulting in a tender bite. The combination of cranberry sauce with barbecue sauce creates a unique sweet-savory glaze that enhances the overall taste. Get ready to enjoy the aromatic experience as your meatballs bake to perfection!
FAQ
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and even bake them a day in advance. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving, adding a little extra sauce if needed.
What can I serve with these meatballs? They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of greens to create a festive salad!
Conclusion
These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a true holiday highlight, combining the warmth of home-cooked flavors with a touch of festive flair. Whether you’re gathering around the table with loved ones or sharing a plate at a holiday gathering, these meatballs will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the bursts of flavor and the joy they bring to your holiday celebrations!