Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Imagen de WhatsApp 2025-02-09 a las 19.59.51_86d04897

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 17 October 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

The holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family, and what better way to bring people together than with a dish that balances savory and sweet flavors? Enter Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, a delightful appetizer that captures the essence of the season. These succulent meatballs are enveloped in a tangy cranberry sauce, giving them a festive twist that is both unique and delicious.

Imagine the joy of watching loved ones dip into a platter of warm meatballs, their faces lighting up with each flavorful bite. The combination of tender ground beef, fresh herbs, and the zing of cranberry makes them an unforgettable addition to any holiday spread. They are easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

So, don’t hesitate to let these Christmas Cranberry Meatballs steal the spotlight at your upcoming holiday gathering. They are sure to become a cherished tradition, enticing everyone to go back for seconds!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef: The base of the meatballs, providing a rich, hearty flavor and tender texture.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together, ensuring they hold their shape while baking.

1/4 cup onion, finely chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the meat mixture, enhancing the overall flavor.
1/4 cup parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley brings brightness and color, balancing the richness of the beef.

1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping to keep the meatballs moist and together as they cook.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat and herbs.
1 cup cranberry sauce: The star of the dish, providing a sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savoriness of the meatballs.

1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds an umami depth and a hint of saltiness to the sauce, enriching its overall flavor.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Contributes a complex flavor with hints of tanginess, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

Directions & Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating your oven establishes the right cooking environment for your meatballs. This ensures even cooking throughout and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper; mix until well combined.
Mixing these ingredients allows the flavors to meld. It’s important not to over-mix, as that can lead to dense meatballs. Just combine them until you see no dry bits left!

Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
Forming uniform meatballs ensures they cook evenly. This step also creates a nice presentation. Keeping them on a baking sheet will allow them to brown well, enhancing their flavor.
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce over medium heat; stir until heated through.
Heating the sauce allows the flavors to blend beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, savory-sweet contrast that makes these meatballs special.
Pour the sauce over the meatballs on the baking sheet.
This step ensures that each meatball is coated in that delightful cranberry sauce, infusing them with flavor during baking. It’s the sweet finish that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C).
Baking at the right temperature for the right amount of time allows them to brown and develop a slight crust, while the inside remains juicy. Using a meat thermometer guarantees they are safe to eat.
Serve warm as an appetizer.
Serving the meatballs warm retains their delightful texture and flavor. Pair them with toothpicks for easy eating, making your holiday gathering a hit.

A Festive Appeal

Bringing together sweet and savory, Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are not just delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant red of the cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown meatballs, making them a centerpiece on any holiday platter. The festive colors evoke the spirit of Christmas, encouraging guests to indulge and enjoy the merriment of the season.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While these meatballs are a fantastic addition to Christmas parties, their delightful flavor makes them suitable for any festive gathering. Whether it’s a New Year’s Eve celebration or a cozy winter get-together, they remain an appealing and versatile choice. Their ease of preparation means you can whip them up quickly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones.

A Tradition to Cherish

As with any beloved holiday dish, Christmas Cranberry Meatballs have the potential to become a cherished family tradition. Sharing recipes across generations creates lasting memories, and this dish is ripe for storytelling and adapting. Make it your own by adding unique spices or serving it with a twist that reflects your family’s preferences.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and can still deliver delicious results. Just be mindful that they may need a bit more binding agent to maintain their structure.

What if the meatballs are too dry?
If you find the meatballs to be dry, consider adding a splash of broth or adjusting the breadcrumb amount next time. Keeping the meatballs moist during cooking is vital to ensuring they’re tender.

Is the sauce too thick?
If your cranberry sauce ends up too thick, simply add a small amount of water or broth to loosen it. Heat it gently while stirring to achieve your desired consistency.

Can these meatballs be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, absolutely! You can cook them in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Just be sure to coat them in the sauce before placing them in the cooker.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, consider using a combination of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar or a little bit of hot sauce for that tangy flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! Just ensure you have a baking sheet or two to accommodate the extra meatballs, and adjust your cooking time accordingly if needed.

How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.

What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
Serve them with toothpicks for easy eating and have some extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. They’re sure to be a showstopper!

Gather around the table with family and friends this holiday season, and let these Christmas Cranberry Meatballs spread warmth and joy. With their perfect balance of flavors and easy preparation, they’re sure to leave lasting impressions and fill your home with holiday cheer. Experience the holiday magic in every bite, and make these meatballs a staple on your festive menu for years to come!

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients

Directions & Preparation

A Festive Appeal

Perfect for Any Occasion

A Tradition to Cherish

FAQs