There’s something about the holiday season that brings out our inner culinary artist. The air fills with sweet and savory aromas, and tables groan under the weight of festive dishes. One dish that never fails to steal the show is Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. Imagine tender meatballs glazed in a tangy cranberry sauce, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. This mouthwatering treat can easily turn any gathering into a memorable feast.
Every time I whip up these delightful meatballs, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where my family would gather around the table, laughter echoing off the walls. The excitement in the air was palpable as we anticipated those first bites. Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night at home, these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are sure to elevate any occasion and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
- The sweet and tangy flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Their vibrant red glaze adds a festive touch to any platter, making them visually appealing for your holiday spread.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes!
Ingredients for Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs that won’t leave you feeling greasy.
- Breadcrumbs: Fresh or dried breadcrumbs help bind the meat mixture while keeping it tender.
- Eggs: One large egg acts as a binder, keeping your meatballs from crumbling apart.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: Choose canned or homemade; it’s the star of our delicious glaze!
For seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder enhances overall flavor without overpowering the cranberries.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated—get ready to get your hands messy!
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; this also makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake meatballs for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown on top.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, prepare your sauce by combining cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it simmers gently. Stir occasionally and let those sweet aromas waft through your kitchen.
Step 5: Glaze Your Meatballs
Once baked, remove meatballs from the oven and carefully toss them in the warm cranberry sauce until fully coated.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer your beautifully glazed Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy—your guests will be swooning!
These little bites of holiday magic are not just easy to make but also pack a punch of flavor that’ll keep everyone coming back for more. Serve them warm alongside toothpicks for easy nibbling or pour them over rice for a hearty meal—a delightful way to celebrate this joyous season!
You Must Know
- Quick Christmas cranberry meatballs are more than just a festive treat; they bring joy to any gathering.
- With their sweet and savory flavor, these meatballs are a hit at holiday parties and family dinners alike.
- Their vibrant color adds cheer to your table, making them irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients together, then roll them into bite-sized balls. Brown them in a skillet for extra flavor before simmering in the sweet-tart cranberry sauce. This sequence ensures that each meatball is packed with taste and retains its juicy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist. You can also kick up the heat with a splash of hot sauce or jazz it up with chopped nuts for crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover quick Christmas cranberry meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- Use breadcrumbs for a light texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Always let your sauce simmer for a while to deepen its flavor profile before adding the meatballs.
Sometimes, I whip these up right before guests arrive and watch their faces light up with every bite—it’s like holiday magic in meatball form!
FAQs :
What are Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive appetizer that combines tender meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests. Cranberry Shortbread Cookies The recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts during the holiday season. Festive Reindeer Cookies Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs provide a unique twist on traditional flavors.
How do I make Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?
To make Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to form meatballs. Brown them in a skillet until golden. Then, add cranberry sauce and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens. This simple process allows you to create delicious meatballs in under an hour, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs for Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. Simply thaw them before cooking or heat them directly in the cranberry sauce until they are heated through. This option saves time while still delivering great flavor. If using frozen meatballs, ensure they are fully cooked according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce for the best results.
What can I serve with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, complemented by cheeses and crackers. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of fresh greens or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion for Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs :
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are an enjoyable and easy-to-make holiday treat that brings festive flavors to any gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, these meatballs offer both convenience and taste. Peppermint Cupcakes Perfect as appetizers or part of a larger meal, they will surely be a hit at your holiday celebrations. Peppermint Cheesecake Cannoli Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe and impress your guests with its unique flavor combination! For more inspiration, check out this Ultimate Chocolate Cake recipe.
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive delight that combines tender meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these easy-to-make bites burst with flavor and can be served as appetizers or over rice for a hearty main dish. Impress your guests with this versatile recipe that will elevate any celebration!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 meatballs (6 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, heat cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
- Toss baked meatballs in the warm cranberry sauce until fully coated.
- Serve warm on a platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (140g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before baking. - Swap ground turkey for leaner meat options or add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
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