Description
These succulent cranberry meatballs are the ultimate festive appetizer, perfectly balancing savory ground beef with a tangy, sweet-and-spicy cranberry glaze. Designed for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make dish turns simple ingredients into a sophisticated treat that features a golden-brown crust and a glossy, sticky coating. The vibrant flavors provide a clean, refreshing palate experience that will keep guests coming back for more throughout your celebration. Perfect for a stress-free hosting experience.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio)
14 oz cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
12 oz chili sauce
0.5 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg
0.25 cup onion, finely minced
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and minced onion until well incorporated.
Roll the meat mixture into small, uniform spheres using damp hands to prevent sticking.
Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring space between them.
Bake for 20 minutes until the exterior is browned.
In a large saucepan, whisk together the cranberry sauce and chili sauce over medium heat.
Stir continuously until the glaze bubbles and reaches a uniform, smooth consistency.
Add the baked meatballs to the saucepan and stir to coat thoroughly.
Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and the glaze to thicken further.
Notes
Use damp hands when rolling the meatballs to prevent the meat mixture from sticking to your skin. The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a tablespoon of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Baking and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg