Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs: A Festive Delight

As the holiday season approaches, our kitchens become a hub of activity, filled with the delightful aromas of festive baking and cooking. One dish that invariably brings people together is Cranberry Meatballs. These delectable morsels not only pack a flavor punch but also make for a stunning centerpiece at any holiday gathering. This recipe promises convenience and festive flair, perfect for those busy holiday weeks.

Ingredients

To make these quick and delightful cranberry meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef or a mix of ground meats (beef, pork, turkey)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnishing

For the Cranberry Sauce:

  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

  2. Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should yield around 20-24 meatballs.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

  1. Sear the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce

  1. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar (if using). Stir and let simmer for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Glaze the Meatballs

  1. Combine: Return the meatballs to the skillet and gently toss them in the cranberry sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs can be served in various ways:

  • As an Appetizer: Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks for a party-friendly option.
  • On a Bed of Rice or Couscous: Serve over a fluffy bed of rice or couscous for a hearty main dish.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional holiday dinner.

Conclusion

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are not just simple to make, they’re also bursting with festive flavor. They are sure to become a favorite in your holiday repertoire, pleasing both young and old alike. The perfect combination of sweet and savory, these meatballs bring a delightful pop of color to your table and create a warm, inviting atmosphere for any Christmas gathering. Enjoy and happy cooking!