Easy Cranberry Meatballs for Christmas Party

© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

Easy Cranberry Meatballs for Christmas Party 🎄🍖✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for the perfect holiday appetizers that combine festive flavors with easy preparation, then these cranberry meatballs are a must-try! They are a crowd-pleasing dish ideal for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or any festive occasion. Combining juicy meatballs with a tangy cranberry glaze, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet, making it a standout on your holiday table.

2. Ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

3. How to Make Delicious Cranberry Meatballs

Preparation of the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and browned.

Preparing the Cranberry Glaze

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Use a spoon to mash some cranberries for a smoother sauce if desired.

Combining and Serving

Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a slow cooker or a large skillet. Pour the warm cranberry glaze over the meatballs, tossing gently to coat evenly. Let simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

4. Storage Tips for Cranberry Meatballs

To keep your cranberry meatballs fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. For longer storage, freeze them in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Reheat thawed meatballs in the oven or slow cooker to retain their flavor and texture.

5. Perfect Serving Suggestions for Festive Occasions

These cranberry meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As a main dish with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes
• As part of a holiday appetizer platter alongside cheese, crackers, and other finger foods. Check out our elegant cheese board ideas for holiday entertaining.
• On toothpicks for easy-to-eat party snacks
• Pair with a festive cocktail like the Ninja Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor Technology for an elevated holiday experience.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them with the cranberry glaze before serving.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking to allow proper melting and thickening of the glaze.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to ensure compatibility.

How long does it take to prepare the cranberry meatballs from start to finish?

Including preparation and cooking time, it takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour to make these cranberry meatballs.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Equip your kitchen with top-quality tools to make preparing these holiday appetizers easier and more enjoyable. For example, the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is perfect for quick cooking and reheating leftovers without extra oil — making it a versatile addition to your Christmas kitchen. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even heat distribution for perfect meatball baking. For all-in-one cooking, consider the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer.

8. Conclusion

In summary, these easy cranberry meatballs make an exceptional addition to your Christmas party menu. Their delightful blend of savory meatballs and tangy cranberry sauce is sure to impress your guests. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and versatile serving options, this recipe is a holiday favorite you’ll want to keep on hand for every festive gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy the praise for your delicious holiday appetizers!

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