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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive, savory appetizer featuring juicy meatballs glazed in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe balances rich meat flavors with bright cranberry notes, delivering a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative like almond flour)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cranberry Glaze

  • 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries (frozen can be used with extra cooking time)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water (or as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to create a uniform mixture without overworking the meat to keep meatballs tender.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about one inch in diameter. Consistent size ensures even cooking and appealing presentation.
  3. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. This searing step locks in juices and creates a delicious crust without fully cooking the meatballs through.
  4. Make the Cranberry Sauce Glaze: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, water, and orange zest if using. Simmer until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze that will coat the meatballs beautifully.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Add the browned meatballs to the cranberry sauce, gently toss or spoon the glaze over them. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the cranberry flavors.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender rather than dense.
  • Shape meatballs evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Use fresh cranberries when possible for best tang and color.
  • Allow the cranberry glaze to thicken properly so it sticks well to the meatballs.
  • Use a non-stick pan to avoid sticking and get a perfect sear.
  • Optional: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
  • For gluten-free, use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
  • You can prepare meatballs and sauce a day in advance and reheat together.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas meatballs, cranberry meatballs, holiday appetizer, quick meatballs, festive party food, gluten free meatballs

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/quick-christmas-cranberry-meatballs/