Finding the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings can feel like a real puzzle, especially when you’re juggling all the other special occasion preparations. These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are not only simple to make but also pack a delightful flavor that will impress your guests. Ideal for parties or cozy family dinners, these meatballs combine the sweetness of cranberry with savory beef, making them a standout addition to your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these meatballs effortlessly.
• Flavorful Combination: The tangy cranberry sauce combined with ground beef creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them on toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice for a hearty meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a family dinner, these meatballs fit right in.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and reheat for last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Quick Cranberry Meatballs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients evenly, ensuring each meatball is packed with flavor.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for cooking the meatballs evenly, allowing for perfect browning.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking, making cleanup easier after baking.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce, enhancing their flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
• 1 ½ pounds very lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (like panko)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or packaged)
• 1 cup tomato ketchup
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

How to Make Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* The grated onion
* Ground beef
* Breadcrumbs
* Eggs
* Tomato ketchup
* Worcestershire sauce
* Chopped parsley
* Salt and pepper

Mix everything until just combined; avoid overmixing as it can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on top.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Combine cranberry sauce, tomato ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Stir until well mixed and heated through.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Once baked, add the meatballs into the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to coat each meatball evenly in the sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes before serving.

Now your Quick Cranberry Meatballs are ready to delight everyone at your gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

Serving Quick Cranberry Meatballs can elevate any holiday gathering and make it memorable. Here are some delightful serving ideas to impress your guests.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the meatballs on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley and cranberries for a vibrant presentation.

With Toothpicks

• Serve the meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking. This makes them perfect for mingling guests during cocktail hour.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Place the meatballs over fluffy rice or quinoa. This creates a hearty meal option and adds beautiful color to the plate.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include the meatballs on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, fruits, and nuts. This offers variety and encourages guests to sample different flavors.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer dipping sauces like extra cranberry sauce or spicy mustard on the side for added flavor options that guests can customize.

How to Perfect Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

To ensure your Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a hit at your holiday gathering, follow these helpful tips.

• Use lean meat: Choosing very lean ground beef helps keep the meatballs juicy without excess fat.
• Mix ingredients well: Thoroughly combining all ingredients ensures even flavor throughout each meatball.
• Form uniform sizes: Make sure each meatball is about the same size for even cooking and consistent presentation.
• Bake instead of fry: Baking meatballs in the oven reduces mess and allows for easier cleanup while still achieving that delicious golden brown crust.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking to ensure seasoning is just right; feel free to add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit for a few minutes before serving; this enhances their flavor as they absorb the sauce better.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

Complement your Quick Cranberry Meatballs with these delicious side dishes that will round out your holiday meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that pairs beautifully with savory meatballs.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts add crunch and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
3. Steamed Green Beans
   Fresh green beans provide a pop of color and texture, making them an ideal light side dish alongside rich meatballs.
4. Cranberry Spinach Salad
   A refreshing salad with spinach, walnuts, and cranberries adds brightness to your meal while complementing the flavors of the meatballs.
5. Buttery Dinner Rolls
   Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up extra sauce from the meatballs, providing both sustenance and satisfaction.
6. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs makes for a nutritious grain option that pairs well with savory dishes like meatballs.
7. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful twist on traditional sides, adding sweetness and crunch to your spread.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful stir-fry featuring seasonal vegetables brings vibrancy to your table while complementing the main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick Cranberry Meatballs can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will elevate your dish.

• Bold ingredients: Not measuring accurately can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold overmixing: Mixing the meat too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
• Bold ignoring cooking time: Overcooking can dry out your meatballs. Follow the recommended cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Bold skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can result in bland flavors. Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust as needed.
• Bold using low-quality sauce: Cheap sauces can negatively affect taste. Opt for high-quality cranberry sauce and ketchup for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between bursts.
• Stovetop: Add to a skillet over medium heat with some sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Quick Cranberry Meatballs (special occasion Recipe)?

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are savory beef meatballs glazed with a sweet cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings or parties.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey makes a great substitute for beef in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times if necessary.

How do I customize Quick Cranberry Meatballs?

Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or onion powder, or mix in different herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?

Serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks as an easy appetizer or alongside rice as a main dish.

Final Thoughts

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices, making them unique each time you prepare them. Try this recipe at your next gathering and watch it become an instant hit!

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Quick Cranberry Meatballs

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings, combining savory beef meatballs with a delightful sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. With just 15 minutes of preparation time, these flavorful meatballs are easy to whip up and can be served in various ways, making them ideal for parties or family dinners. Whether you choose to present them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking or serve them over rice for a hearty meal, they’re sure to impress your guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and reheated, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
• 1 ½ pounds very lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (like panko)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or packaged)
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated onion, ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through and browned.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by heating cranberry sauce, tomato ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Once the meatballs are baked, add them to the skillet with the sauce and gently stir to coat evenly. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs (approx. 80g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme into the meat mixture. Ground turkey can be substituted for lean beef if desired. Serve with dipping sauces like extra cranberry sauce or spicy mustard for a personalized touch.