Name: Christmas Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 envelope onion soup mix; 0.5 cup seasoned bread crumbs; 0.25 cup chopped dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean); 1 can whole-berry cranberry sauce (14 ounces); 0.75 cup ketchup; 0.5 cup beef broth; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 tablespoons finely chopped onion; 2 teaspoons cider vinegar

Introduction to Christmas Meatballs

The joy of homemade Christmas appetizers

The holiday season is truly special, and there's something magical about bringing people together over delicious food. Homemade appetizers like Christmas meatballs can elevate your holiday gatherings, adding a cozy touch that store-bought options often lack. Picture this: a tray of golden, succulent meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy glaze, the aroma infusing your home with warmth and cheer. Nothing makes guests feel more welcome than a thoughtfully prepared snack that you crafted with your own hands.

Why Christmas meatballs are a must-try this season

So, why should these Christmas meatballs be on your holiday menu? For starters, they are delightfully easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes of prep time. This means less stress for you and more time to enjoy the festivities. Plus, with ingredients like dried cranberries and a savory sauce, these meatballs add a delightful contrast to the rich flavors typically found in holiday fare. They're perfect for snacking or serving alongside a variety of side dishes.

Don't just take our word for it—many home cooks swear by the joy of making and sharing Christmas meatballs with family and friends. If you're looking for a fun and festive addition to your holiday spread, these bites are a sure win!

For more inspiration on holiday appetizers, check out Taste of Home's guide.

Ingredients for Christmas Meatballs

When it comes to Christmas Meatballs, the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here's what you'll need to create these delectable bites that are sure to impress your holiday guests!

List of Ingredients for Meatballs

2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 envelope onion soup mix
½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
¼ cup chopped dried cranberries
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1-½ pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)

List of Ingredients for Sauce

1 can (14 ounces) whole-berry cranberry sauce
¾ cup ketchup
½ cup beef broth
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 teaspoons cider vinegar

These ingredients not only provide flavor but also add a festive flair that captures the spirit of the season. If you're curious about variations, consider adding some spices or herbs suited to your taste! For more inspiration, you might explore additional appetizer ideas on sites like Taste of Home or check out some healthy alternatives for a delightful twist. Enjoy crafting these mouth-watering treats!

Preparing Christmas Meatballs

Making Christmas Meatballs can transform your holiday gatherings into something truly special. The vibrant flavors of cranberry and tender beef create an irresistible dish that’ll have your guests coming back for more. Here’s a friendly guide to get you started on preparing these delectable treats!

Gather All Your Ingredients

Before diving in, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need for those delicious Christmas Meatballs:

2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 envelope onion soup mix
½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
¼ cup chopped dried cranberries
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1-½ pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)

For the sauce:

1 can (14 ounces) whole-berry cranberry sauce
¾ cup ketchup
½ cup beef broth
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 teaspoons cider vinegar

Having everything in one place will streamline your prepping process, so grab a good-sized bowl, a plate, and don’t forget to wash your hands!

Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, dried cranberries, and parsley. Feel free to get a little creative here—if you have favorite spices, now’s the time to add them! Next, gently mix in the lean ground beef. Aim for a blended yet airy mixture—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Shape the Meatballs

Now comes the fun part: shaping those meatballs! Use your hands to craft them into 1-inch balls. This size is perfect for popping in your mouth at holiday gatherings or as a delightful addition to a larger dish. Make sure they’re all about the same size to ensure even cooking.

Microwave the Meatballs

To cook your meatballs quickly, place a third of them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with waxed paper and microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes—or until they’re cooked through. Don’t forget to drain them on paper towels afterward to soak up any excess grease! Repeat this step with the remaining meatballs.

Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are cooking, it’s time to whip up that tasty sauce! In a 2-quart microwave-safe dish, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, beef broth, brown sugar, chopped onion, and cider vinegar. Microwave this mixture, covered, on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want it to be heated through and well combined.

Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Once your meatballs are ready, gently stir them into the sauce. Microwave the combined dish, covered, for another 1-2 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully. When you serve these Christmas Meatballs, your guests will marvel at how an ordinary ingredient like ground beef and some seasonal cranberries can come together to create something so delicious!

Now that you’re well-prepared, why not check out more holiday appetizer ideas here? Happy cooking!

Variations on Christmas Meatballs

Sweet and Spicy Christmas Meatballs

For those who enjoy a little kick, sweet and spicy Christmas meatballs deliver a delightful contrast. Combine your usual meatball mix with a splash of hot sauce and a tablespoon of honey for that perfect balance. This twist transforms these savory bites into a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a sweet chili sauce for dipping, and watch your guests come back for more!

Vegetarian Christmas Meatballs

Looking for a lighter option? Vegetarian Christmas meatballs are a fabulous alternative! Substitute lean ground beef with a mix of lentils, quinoa, and finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers and carrots. Bind them with a mixture of breadcrumbs and your favorite seasonings for flavor. Pair with a tangy tomato sauce or a zesty yogurt dip, and these meatless wonders will charm everyone at the table!

For more ways to spice up your holiday menu, check out these festive appetizer ideas.

Cooking notes for Christmas Meatballs

Essential kitchen tools

For these Christmas Meatballs, you'll need a few key tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing ingredients and a smaller one for the sauce.
Whisk: Great for combining your eggs and other wet ingredients thoroughly.
Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps shape uniform meatballs for even cooking.
Microwave-safe dish: Essential for heating your sauce and meatballs easily.

Tips for perfect meatballs

Achieving a delightful meatball texture is all about balance. Here are some tips:

Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients lightly to keep them tender.
Use lean meat: Ground beef with a lower fat content helps prevent greasiness while still being juicy.
Include moisture: Ingredients like dried cranberries deliver not just flavor but also moisture.
Microwave in batches: This prevents your meatballs from overcrowding, ensuring they cook evenly.

For more insights, check out Joy of Cooking for their expert tips on meatballs and various cooking techniques!

With these notes in hand, you're ready to impress your guests this holiday season with delicious Christmas Meatballs!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Meatballs

Ideal Accompaniments

When serving your Christmas Meatballs, think of flavors that complement the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. Serve them with:

Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash for a delightful contrast.
Light, fresh salads, such as a spinach salad with vinaigrette.
Turkey Bacon-wrapped asparagus for a crispy bite that adds an elegant touch.

Creative Serving Ideas

Make your Christmas Meatballs the star of the show with some fun presentation ideas:

Create a meatball platter with toothpicks for easy serving, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Pair them with mini sliders on small buns for an unexpected twist on classic sandwiches.
Serve in small mason jars alongside dipping sauces, creating a rustic and charming display.

These options will elevate your holiday table and ensure your guests will remember your celebratory feast! For more festive ideas, check out Taste of Home's Party Planning section.

Time Details for Christmas Meatballs

Preparation Time

Get ready to whip up these delicious Christmas meatballs in just 15 minutes! It's super simple—you’ll mix, shape, and prep the meatballs quickly, allowing you to dive right into the fun of holiday cooking.

Cooking Time

Cooking these festive delights will take about 15 minutes. Utilizing the microwave in a few batches ensures even cooking and keeps your kitchen from heating up too much while you prepare for your holiday gathering.

Total Time

In no time, you'll have a total of 30 minutes spent on making these tasty holiday appetizers. Perfect for entertaining friends and family, you’ll be amazed at how quickly these meatballs disappear from the platter!

For more holiday cooking tips, check out our extensive collection of Christmas dinner ideas here.

Nutritional Information for Christmas Meatballs

If you're looking for a delightful holiday appetizer, Christmas Meatballs are a fantastic choice! Here’s a quick look at their nutritional benefits:

Calories per Meatball

Each meatball contains just 71 calories, making them a guilt-free treat to serve at your holiday gatherings.

Protein Content

Packed with 4 grams of protein, these meatballs provide a satisfying bite, perfect for keeping energy levels up during festive celebrations.

Sodium Levels

With 190 mg of sodium per meatball, they're flavorful without overwhelming your dietary balance. Plus, you can control sodium levels by adjusting the seasoning.

For more insights on healthy eating during the holidays, explore resources from Healthline or check out seasonal recipes at EatingWell. These meatballs are not only delicious but also align beautifully with your nutritional goals. Enjoy your festivities!

FAQs about Christmas Meatballs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Christmas Meatballs ahead of time can save you stress during the holiday hustle. Simply form the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, just follow the cooking instructions. For even easier prep, you can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Just cook them straight from the freezer when you're ready.

What sauce goes well with Christmas meatballs?

The sauce for these Christmas Meatballs is a delightful combination of whole-berry cranberry sauce, ketchup, beef broth, brown sugar, chopped onion, and cider vinegar. The mix offers a perfect sweet and tangy glaze that complements the meatballs beautifully. If you want to switch things up, a savory barbecue sauce can also work well!

Can I freeze leftover Christmas meatballs?

Yes, you can! If you find any leftover Christmas Meatballs after your gathering, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh for about three months. For easy reheating, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy more delicious bites later!

For more delicious ideas and tips, check out resources like Taste of Home for inspiration!

Conclusion on Christmas Meatballs

Final thoughts on making Christmas meatballs

Creating Christmas meatballs can brighten up your holiday gatherings with a burst of flavor and warmth. These little bites of joy are not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to impress guests of all ages. Don't forget, the secret to delightful meatballs lies in the balance of ingredients and that tangy sauce!

Encourage readers to share their creations

We’d love to see how your Christmas meatballs turn out! Share your creations and variations on social media, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions if you need tips along the way. Your festive gatherings deserve the best, and we’re here to help!