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Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – A Festive Appetizer Favorite

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Juicy homemade meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry-chili glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or festive appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb ground beef or beef/pork mix

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

  • 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce

  • 1 cup chili sauce

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1 tbsp orange juice or zest (optional)

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until just combined.

  • Roll into 1-inch balls and arrange on a baking sheet.

  • Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or until fully cooked.

  • Meanwhile, in a saucepan, mix cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and optional ingredients. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

  • Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Simmer for 10–15 minutes or keep warm in a slow cooker.

Notes

  • Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze.

  • Serve with toothpicks for appetizers or over rice as a meal.

  • Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.

Find it online: https://feasttrove.com/christmas-cranberry-meatballs-a-festive-appetizer-favorite/