Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that will impress your guests this holiday season, look no further! These Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) are not only tasty but also super simple to whip up. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs, creating a flavor combination that’s sure to be a hit at any holiday table.

I love this recipe because it brings everyone together. Whether it’s for Christmas parties, potlucks, or even game nights, these meatballs will steal the show. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and heated up when you’re ready to serve, which makes hosting so much easier!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to entertain.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cranberry sauce and savory beef creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful meatballs.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some heat: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little spice in your meatballs.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Change up the sauce: Try using different fruit sauces like raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist!

How to Make Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything well allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring every bite is flavorful. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there – it’s part of the fun!

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, use your hands to form small meatballs about an inch in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy for guests to enjoy without too much mess. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they’re browned and cooked through. Baking gives them that lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your meatballs are baking, combine cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until everything is heated through and well combined. This sweet-tangy sauce is what really elevates these meatballs!

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Once the meatballs are done baking, toss them gently in the warm cranberry sauce until they’re fully coated. Serve them up warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. Your guests will love this festive treat!

Now that you have my favorite Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe), I can’t wait for you to try them! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Making the perfect meatballs can be a breeze with a few handy tips that will elevate your dish and impress your guests!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground beef enhance flavor and texture, making your meatballs taste homemade and delicious.

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender, juicy results.

• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste as you go! Seasoning is key, so feel free to adjust salt and pepper based on your preference to ensure a flavorful bite.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. This saves time on the day of your gathering and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Experiment with sauces: While cranberry sauce is traditional, don’t hesitate to try different sauces or add spices for an exciting twist. Your creativity can lead to delightful surprises!

How to Serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)

Presenting your Quick Cranberry Meatballs beautifully can make all the difference at your holiday gathering. Here are some ideas to create an inviting display that will leave everyone reaching for more!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberries: Toss in some whole cranberries or dried cranberries on top for a festive touch that emphasizes the seasonal flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs complement the meatballs perfectly while adding vibrant colors to your table.

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the sweet-tangy cranberry sauce, providing a delicious contrast in flavors.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the meatballs while keeping things healthy.

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a crunchy element that everyone loves; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover cranberry sauce from your plate!

By combining these serving suggestions with your Quick Cranberry Meatballs, you’ll create a memorable meal that’s sure to spread joy during this festive season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make them ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They’ll be good for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh, consider separating the meatballs from the sauce before storing.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, checking frequently.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these delightful meatballs, here are some common questions!

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

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for leaner meats.

How do I make Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils mixed with breadcrumbs and egg replacer. Adjust seasoning as necessary for flavor.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce in Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of your meatballs wonderfully.

What can I serve with Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe)?

These meatballs pair well with toothpicks for easy serving or alongside mashed potatoes or rice to make it a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Quick Cranberry Meatballs for your holiday celebrations! They are not only simple but also bring a festive touch that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite and the special moments shared around the table. Happy cooking!