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Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Delightfully tender meatballs bathed in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken) Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Adds the perfect texture.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion Brings sweetness and depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth and kick.
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce The star of the show!
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Adds savory umami.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar Balances tartness.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard Adds tangy brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, approximately one inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
Glazing and Baking
  1. In a separate bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and mustard.
  2. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serving
  1. Serve warm as an appetizer.

Notes

For even-sized meatballs, use an ice cream scoop. For extra flavor, sauté onions before mixing. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.