The holiday season is all about family, warmth, and delicious food! If you're looking for a unique and savory dish to add to your festive table this Christmas, meatballs are the perfect choice. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, these Christmas Meatballs will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a buffet, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why Christmas Meatballs are Perfect for the Holidays
Festive and versatile: Meatballs are easy to customize with holiday flavors.
Easy to prepare: You can make them in advance and reheat when guests arrive.
Great for sharing: Whether at a cozy dinner or a large holiday gathering, they’re ideal for serving family-style.
Ingredients for Christmas Meatballs
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious festive meatballs:
For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (for a festive touch!)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Holiday Glaze:
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard (optional for extra tang)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, milk, oregano, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and set them on a plate.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish or lined sheet pan.
3. Make the Glaze:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and simmering, about 5 minutes.
4. Glaze and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the glaze evenly over the meatballs in the baking dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the glaze is bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Christmas Meatballs on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and cranberries for a festive presentation.
Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even toothpicks as a delightful party appetizer.
Add them to a holiday buffet alongside other favorites like baked ham, stuffing, and a green bean casserole.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time during the busy holiday season:
Prepare the meatballs in advance: Roll and cook the meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Freeze for later: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before baking with the glaze.
Glaze in a flash: Make the cranberry glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Meatballs combine sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite, making them perfect for the holiday season. Plus, the festive cranberry glaze brings a seasonal twist to a classic dish!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Meatballs recipe is easy, delicious, and sure to brighten up your holiday table. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, sides, or a hearty main course, these flavorful bites will quickly become a family tradition. Enjoy the season with this festive and mouthwatering dish!
Happy Holidays and Merry Cooking!
Christmas Meatballs Recipe - A Festive Holiday Favorite
Looking for the perfect dish to wow your family and friends this holiday season? These Christmas meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Tender, juicy, and bursting with festive flavors, they make the perfect addition to any Christmas dinner, party appetizer table, or holiday potluck. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will leave everyone asking for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
- Easy to make in under 30 minutes.
- Great as appetizers, main course, or potluck dish.
- Festive and customizable for the holiday season.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Christmas meatballs, you'll need:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp milk
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (or jelly)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and milk.
- Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, whisk together the cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder (if using).
- Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use a cookie scoop to make evenly sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
- For a time-saving option, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs.
- Adjust the sauce's sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or BBQ sauce as needed.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas meatballs can be served in various ways:
- As an appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing.
- Over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting main dish.
- With crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce up to 2 days ahead. Reheat in a skillet or slow cooker before serving.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely. Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
This Christmas meatballs recipe is the perfect festive addition to your holiday menu. Whether you serve them as appetizers or a main dish, their sweet and savory flavors will bring joy to your family and friends. Try this easy recipe, and let the holiday feast begin!
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! 🎄
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