Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? These cranberry meatballs are not only easy to make but also a delightful blend of flavors. The sweet and tart cranberry sauce perfectly complements the savory meatballs, making them an irresistible treat for parties or family gatherings. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of cranberry meatballs (about 3 meatballs) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary with substitutions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Stir the sauce until it is heated through and slightly thickened.
8. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce.
9. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce to coat them evenly.
10. Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture.
Serving and Pairings
These cranberry meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at parties!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
- Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (160°F for ground beef).
- Let the meatballs sit in the sauce for a few minutes for better flavor absorption.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for convenience.
- Experiment with different sauces for unique flavors.
- For a festive touch, add chopped cranberries to the meat mixture.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just heat them through in the sauce until warmed, which will save time.
What can I serve with cranberry meatballs?
Cranberry meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, kids generally love the sweet and tangy flavor of the cranberry sauce, making it a kid-friendly option.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for ground beef.
Conclusion
These cranberry meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe for a tasty twist on a classic dish!
Cranberry Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can 14 oz cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the sauce until it is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce.
- Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce to coat them evenly.
- Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
