Finding the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings can feel overwhelming with all the Christmas preparations. Between wrapping presents, decorating, and planning the main course, who has time for complicated appetizers? That’s why these Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a lifesaver. They’re festive, delicious, quick to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. Combining the holiday classic cranberry flavor with tender meatballs, this recipe will make your holiday hosting a breeze.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Meatballs
- Perfect Party Food: Great as appetizers or a main dish, these meatballs are easy to eat while mingling at holiday gatherings.
- Quick Prep: Ready in just 35–45 minutes, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat when needed, saving time on party day.
- Sweet & Savory: The cranberry glaze balances sweet and tangy flavors with a savory twist that’s perfect for the season.
Substitution Ideas
- Ground Pork: Use ground turkey, chicken, or beef. For leaner meats like turkey or chicken, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to keep them moist.
- Breadcrumbs: Substitute with crushed crackers, quick oats, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cranberry Sauce: Use grape jelly or raspberry jam with a tablespoon of vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Lemon Juice: Apple cider vinegar or lime juice works just as well.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute with honey or regular sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks or in a slow cooker for a grab-and-go option.
- As a Main Dish: Pair with fluffy white rice, buttery egg noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up the cranberry sauce.
- With Vegetables: Add roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze meatballs with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Freeze in portions for convenience.
- Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Thin the sauce with water or chicken broth if needed.
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving. The flavors improve over time!
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate holiday appetizer. Easy to make and bursting with festive flavors, they’ll quickly become a favorite at your celebrations!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 small onion grated or finely diced
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground pork 90–95% lean
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 2 cups cranberry sauce homemade or canned
- 1 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prep for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs (about 32 meatballs). For even sizes, use a small ice cream scoop.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball reads 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce
- While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a large skillet. Stir over medium heat until the mixture starts to boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
- Gently stir the baked meatballs into the cranberry sauce, ensuring each meatball is well-coated. Let them simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley for a festive touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
