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Christmas Meatballs Recipe

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These Christmas Meatballs are the perfect holiday appetizer, made with tender homemade meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. A festive and crowd-pleasing dish for Christmas parties, potlucks, and holiday dinners!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Cranberry Glaze:

  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (smooth or whole berry)
  • ½ cup chili sauce or ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warm holiday flavor)

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until well combined. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake: Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until meatballs are browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
  • Prepare the Glaze: While the meatballs are baking, whisk together cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Coat the Meatballs: Add the baked meatballs to the saucepan and toss to coat them in the glaze. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • Serve: Transfer to a serving dish or slow cooker set to warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary for a festive touch. Serve with toothpicks.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Option: Bake the meatballs ahead of time and reheat in the glaze before serving.
  • Slow Cooker Option: Add baked meatballs and glaze to a slow cooker and keep warm on low for serving.
  • Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/christmas-meatballs-recipe/