These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful and festive appetizer that brings together savory and sweet flavors in a bite-sized treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these meatballs are easy to prepare and are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant appearance and delicious taste.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Heat the Sauce: Stir until the sauce is heated through and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Coat the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the sauce and gently toss to coat.
2. Serve Warm: Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	500mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	6g
Protein	15g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the meatballs light.
• Adjust Sauce Flavor: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your taste; adding a bit of hot sauce can give it a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just reheat in the sauce before serving.

Variations

• Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option that still packs great flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based meat substitute and adjust the sauce for a delicious vegetarian appetizer.
• Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meatball mixture for added flavor.

Conclusion

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are an easy and festive addition to any holiday spread. With their beautiful appearance and delightful combination of flavors, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes! You can use frozen meatballs; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatballs in the sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.