Chef's Essential Tips

Baking Technique: Baking meatballs provides a healthier alternative to frying. Be sure to space them evenly on the baking sheet for proper airflow and even cooking.
Moisture Control: If using lean meat, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful.
Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, allow the meatballs to marinate in the refrigerator for an hour before baking.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade cranberry sauce for a more robust flavor. Simply simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and water until they burst.
Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared a day in advance. Store them uncooked in the fridge and bake just before your gathering.
Garnishing: Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the visual appeal. Add them just before serving for a fresh touch.

Essential Ingredients Selection

Ground Meat: This is the base of the meatball, providing protein and helping to form the structure. Ground turkey is a leaner option, while beef offers a richer flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding and creating the desired texture in the meatballs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for those with dietary restrictions.
Onion: Adds moisture and flavor, enhancing the meatball's overall taste. Sweet onions can give a milder flavor, while yellow onions are more pungent.
Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color. You can substitute with other herbs like cilantro or thyme per your preference.
Egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatball mixture together. This is crucial for the meatballs to retain their shape during cooking.
Garlic Powder: Offers a convenient way to infuse garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic. It enhances the savory aspects of the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors of all ingredients. Adjust according to taste preferences.
Cranberry Sauce: The star of the glaze, providing sweetness and tanginess. Whole berry sauce gives texture, while jellied sauce offers a smoother finish.
Orange Juice: Adds a zesty, fresh flavor that complements the cranberries. Freshly squeezed juice is recommended for best results.
Brown Sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries with sweetness. You could use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Final Presentation:

For a festive touch, arrange meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle with extra cranberry glaze. This enhances both appearance and flavor, making them even more appealing to guests.

Making Ahead:

Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate. Baking just before serving keeps them fresh and hot, an excellent strategy for holiday gatherings to minimize day-of stress.

Freezing for Later Use:

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs laid out on a tray, then transfer them to a bag once frozen. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage and Reheating:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. This will keep the meatballs moist and flavorful without drying them out.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, or offer them over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.

Coating the Meatballs:

Once the meatballs are baked, carefully transfer them to a bowl and pour the warm glaze over them. Toss gently to coat each meatball without breaking them apart. This step is crucial for ensuring every meatball is deliciously glazed.

Creating the Cranberry Glaze:

In a saucepan, combine all glaze ingredients and heat over medium. Stir occasionally until it simmers and thickens. This step will enhance the flavors as they meld together, creating a deeply satisfying sauce.

Baking the Meatballs:

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Baking will create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure to space them apart for even cooking and browning.

Forming the Meatballs:

Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking, then take small portions of the mixture and roll them into uniform balls. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter for even cooking. This allows for a nice balance of crust and tenderness.

Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:

Combine the ground meat with breadcrumbs, spices, and fresh ingredients in a bowl. Use your hands or a fork to mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing which can lead to tough meatballs. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.

The Complete Guide to Mastering Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Final Presentation:

For a festive touch, arrange meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle with extra cranberry glaze. This enhances both appearance and flavor, making them even more appealing to guests.

Making Ahead:

Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate. Baking just before serving keeps them fresh and hot, an excellent strategy for holiday gatherings to minimize day-of stress.

Freezing for Later Use:

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs laid out on a tray, then transfer them to a bag once frozen. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage and Reheating:

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, or offer them over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.

Coating the Meatballs:

Creating the Cranberry Glaze:

Baking the Meatballs:

Forming the Meatballs:

Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:

Pro Chef Secrets to Perfect Cranberry Meatballs

Serve these meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking, or alongside mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.

Experiment with the glaze by adding cranberry juice or jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Ensure the meatballs are served warm for optimal flavor and texture, as the cranberry glaze thickens when cooled.

Irresistibly Delicious Christmas Cranberry Meatballs with Sweet and Tangy Glaze

Name: Irresistibly Delicious Christmas Cranberry Meatballs with Sweet and Tangy Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed); 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Cranberry Glaze:; 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free if needed); 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Bring holiday cheer to your table with these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your festive gatherings unforgettable. Juicy ground meat combines with vibrant cranberries, aromatic spices, and a splash of zesty orange juice, creating a deliciously sweet, savory, and tangy experience. These meatballs are tender on the inside, while the glossy cranberry glaze adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for holiday parties, family dinners, or as a cozy appetizer for a winter gathering, these meatballs are sure to warm hearts and homes. With their eye-catching presentation and mouthwatering aroma, your loved ones won't be able to resist. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a party snack, these holiday favorites will leave everyone reminiscing about the joy of the season.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

30 Minutes

Total Time

50 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Glaze:

1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce

1/4 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)

1 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry glaze by combining the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Stir the glaze continuously until it begins to simmer and thicken, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl.

Pour the warm cranberry glaze over the meatballs, gently tossing to coat them evenly.

Serve the glazed meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

These meatballs can be kept warm in a slow cooker on low for serving, ensuring guests enjoy them throughout your festive gathering.