Name: Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup chopped onion; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the festive flavors of cranberry with savory meat, making them an irresistible centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple and delicious dish for family dinner, these meatballs offer a quick and satisfying option. Easy to whip up and packed with flavor, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 290
Protein: 18 grams
Carbohydrates: 24 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 480 mg

Why Make This Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are perfect for the holiday season. They combine familiar ingredients with a unique twist, providing both comfort and excitement. The sweet, tangy cranberry sauce paired with the savory meat makes for a delightful flavor explosion. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities. With just a handful of ingredients, you create a dish that looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours preparing.

How to Make Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and thoroughly, giving you the best texture and flavor.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped onion, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Form the mixture into small meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 3: Cooking

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. This will be the glaze that enhances the meatballs’ flavor. Pour this sauce generously over the meatballs. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned.

Step 4: Finishing

Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, allowing your guests to dive into these tasty bites right away!

How to Serve Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These meatballs make a fantastic appetizer served on toothpicks for easy eating at gatherings. They can also be served over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier main course. Garnish with fresh parsley or cranberries for a festive touch!

How to Store Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Meat Choice: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add Flavors: Consider mixing chopped herbs like parsley or thyme into the meatball mixture for an extra zing.
Customize Sauce: If you like a little heat, add some chili sauce or hot sauce to the glaze mixture.
Size Matters: Make sure your meatballs are similar in size to ensure even cooking.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or chickpeas mashed together with breadcrumbs.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce for an exciting twist.
Asian Twist: Use hoisin sauce instead of BBQ sauce to create an Asian-inspired flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and form the meatballs a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

2. What can I serve with the meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, pasta, or served on a bed of mashed potatoes. They also make great sandwiches!

3. Are these meatballs gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your sauces don’t contain gluten.

4. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce can add a personal touch to your dish and enhance its flavors.

5. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for poultry or 165°F (75°C) for beef.

Conclusion

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are an easy and delicious addition to your holiday table. With their sweet and savory profile, they’ll become a favorite for both family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and start mixing up this festive dish that you can enjoy together during the holiday cheer! They are simple to make, incredibly versatile, and bursting with flavor, ensuring that your celebrations are unforgettable. Happy cooking!