Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs: The Ultimate Meatball Recipe

Name: Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped; 1.5 pounds ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko); 2 large eggs; 0.33 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 0.5 teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Introduction to Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect addition to your holiday festivities! Not only are they deliciously flavorful, but they are also incredibly easy to prepare. With a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that perfectly complements the savory meatballs, this dish is sure to become a holiday favorite in your household. Gather your loved ones and get ready to impress them with this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any gathering.

A Personal Story Behind My Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of hosting holiday get-togethers, and one dish that always made an appearance was meatballs. Over the years, I experimented with various recipes, but it was this cranberry-infused version that truly stole the show. The combination of savory meatballs and the sweet, tart sauce became a family favorite, reminding us of joyous moments spent together around the table. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, creating new memories with each bite.

What Makes This Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the unique blend of flavors that come together seamlessly. The savory ground beef, combined with fragrant onion and fresh parsley, creates a hearty base. The real star, however, is the cranberry sauce mixed with ketchup and brown sugar that adds a delightful sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory meatballs. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests and bring everyone together during the holidays.

The Full Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

1 small onion, grated or finely chopped
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well)
2 large eggs
⅓ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup ketchup
3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easier cleanup later!
In a large bowl, mix together all the meatball ingredients thoroughly. Make sure to get your hands in there to really combine everything!

Wet your hands and shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, making around 30-35 meatballs. This step helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160℉ (70℃). A meat thermometer is very helpful here!

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, combine all the sauce ingredients, bringing it to a boil over medium heat. Then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, stirring until heated through. This allows the meatballs to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy with toothpicks for easy serving!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These meatballs can be served in various ways! For a festive presentation, serve them on a large platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. You can also pair them with mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty main dish. For those looking to add a little zing, consider adding a splash of vinegar to the sauce for a tangier flavor or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you’re making these for a party, they can be kept warm in a slow cooker on a low setting, making them perfect for guests to help themselves throughout the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs if you’re short on time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and bake them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the sauce before serving.

What can I serve with cranberry meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I make the sauce spicier?
Yes! If you prefer a spicier sauce, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to give it an extra kick.