Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) Recipe

Introduction

These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Tender pork meatballs are baked to perfection and tossed in a tangy cranberry sauce that balances sweet and savory notes beautifully. They’re easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ lbs lean ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
• 3 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 2 cups cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 cup tomato ketchup (Heinz suggested)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, ketchup, black pepper, grated onion, parsley, salt, Worcestershire sauce, ground pork, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until fully incorporated. Wet your hands to prevent sticking and form into about 32 medium-sized meatballs. Using a small ice cream scoop can help create uniform shapes.
3. Step 3: Arrange the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160℉.
4. Step 4: While baking, prepare the sauce by combining brown sugar, cranberry sauce, lemon juice, and ketchup in a large skillet. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat, then gently add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer until the meatballs are heated through and flavors are combined.
5. Step 5: Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired and serve warm for the best flavor and presentation.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter texture, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
• Substitute ground pork with a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a subtle kick.
• Use fresh cranberries cooked down with sugar if you prefer homemade cranberry sauce.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the meatballs tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the meatballs a day ahead. Store them and the sauce separately in the refrigerator, then combine and warm them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked meatballs in the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 140 reviews

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful Christmas recipe featuring tender pork meatballs baked to perfection and simmered in a tangy, sweet cranberry sauce. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for holiday gatherings, combining traditional holiday flavors with a convenient preparation method.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 32 meatballs, serving 6-8 people 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Meatballs:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ lbs lean ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 2 cups cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 cup tomato ketchup (Heinz recommended)

Instructions

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix and Form Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, tomato ketchup, black pepper, grated onion, chopped parsley, salt, Worcestershire sauce, lean ground pork, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Wet your hands to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into about 32 medium-sized meatballs. Using a small ice cream scoop can help achieve uniform size.
3. Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160℉ when checked with a meat thermometer, ensuring they are fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the brown sugar, cranberry sauce, lemon juice, and tomato ketchup in a large skillet. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil. Then, gently add the baked meatballs to the sauce and cook together until the meatballs are heated through and flavors meld.
5. Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish the meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Serve warm for the best taste experience.

Notes

• Using Panko breadcrumbs provides a lighter texture to the meatballs.
• Wet your hands before shaping the meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking.
• Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160℉ to confirm they are fully cooked.
• Freshly squeezing lemon juice for the sauce enhances the overall flavor.
• Garnishing with parsley adds a fresh, colorful touch to the dish.

Keywords: Cranberry Meatballs, Holiday Meatballs, Christmas Appetizer, Baked Meatballs, Pork Meatballs, Festive Recipe