Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Delicious meatballs with a sweet-tart cranberry and barbecue sauce that are perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Ground turkey is leaner, while ground beef provides a richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Don't skimp on this; it enhances the flavor.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder; can substitute with flaxseed meal or chia seed mixed with water.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Adds brightness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used in moderation.
- Salt and pepper to taste Season to your preference.
For the Sauce
- 1 cup cranberry sauce Use homemade or store-bought; chunky is preferable.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce Use your favorite brand for best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until thoroughly combined and roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Baking
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Sauce Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce over medium heat, stirring until it simmers.
Combining
- Once meatballs are done baking, add them to the saucepan and simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serving
- Serve the warm meatballs on a platter, optionally garnished with extra parsley.
Notes
For best results, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and keep a close eye on the meatballs to prevent them from drying out. Leftover meatballs make great salad toppings or breakfast wraps!
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
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