Description
Christmas Meatballs are the ultimate holiday appetizer, packed with flavor and perfect for festive gatherings. These juicy, tender meatballs are often seasoned with a blend of savory herbs and spices, then simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce made from ingredients like cranberry, barbecue sauce, or a combination of both, creating a deliciously festive twist. Whether made with beef, pork, or a mixture of the two, these meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served as a crowd-pleasing starter or party snack. Their rich, flavorful sauce and bite-sized nature make them the perfect addition to any Christmas spread, and they’re sure to disappear quickly from the appetizer table. Pair with toothpicks for easy serving, and enjoy this comforting, holiday-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef: You can also use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for a more tender texture or even ground turkey for a lighter version.
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional): For added flavor and juiciness. Ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted for a leaner option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and depth to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: For flavor and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a fragrant base flavor.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup milk: To add moisture to the meatballs.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For a warm, herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a touch of earthiness to balance the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce: You can use homemade cranberry sauce or store-bought. Choose a smooth or chunky variety based on preference.
- 1/2 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor. Orange zest can also be added for extra citrus notes.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness to the sauce. You can use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For a warm, festive flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A mild spice that complements the cranberry and orange.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: To thicken the sauce if desired.
- 1 tablespoon water: To mix with the cornstarch.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a pop of color and freshness.
- Orange zest: For an additional burst of citrus flavor.
- Chopped green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a touch of color.
- Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries can be sprinkled on top for extra sweetness and a festive touch.
Instructions
First Step: PREPARE THE MEATBALLS
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until everything is evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate as you go. You should end up with about 24-30 meatballs, depending on the size you make them.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can also pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally for an even brown color.
- Set Aside: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Second Step: MAKE THE SAUCE
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the cranberry sauce has melted and everything is well combined. Bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You can add a pinch more sugar for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or orange juice for extra citrus flavor.
Third Step: COMBINE MEATBALLS WITH SAUCE
- Simmer the Meatballs: Add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and have absorbed some of the sauce’s flavors.
- Serve the Meatballs: Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter or bowl, making sure to spoon plenty of sauce over the top. You can garnish with chopped parsley, orange zest, and a few fresh cranberries for an extra festive touch.
Fourth Step: GARNISH AND SERVE
- Garnish: Add any additional garnishes you prefer, such as freshly chopped parsley, orange zest, or green onions. You can also sprinkle a few dried or fresh cranberries on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Christmas meatballs as an appetizer, a main course, or alongside other holiday dishes. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Simmering Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 25g