Cranberry Glazed Meatballs

Introduction

Looking for a tasty appetizer for your next party? These Cranberry Glazed Meatballs are not only easy to make, but they also pack a flavor punch that will leave your guests asking for the recipe! I first tried these meatballs at a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of juicy meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze was irresistible. My family couldn’t get enough, and I knew I had to recreate them at home. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or simply craving a delicious snack, these meatballs are sure to impress!

Ingredients

To make these delectable Cranberry Glazed Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cranberry Glazed Meatballs:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are evenly spaced for proper cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
5. Prepare the Cranberry Glaze: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the cranberry glaze over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly.
7. Serve: Serve the cranberry glazed meatballs hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 17g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
• Skewers: Serve meatballs on skewers for easy handling.
• Dipping Sauces: Provide extra cranberry sauce or a spicy mustard as a dip.
• Presentation: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
• Warmth: Keep meatballs warm in a slow cooker if serving over an extended period.

Additional Tips

1. Meat Variety: For a different flavor, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
3. Add Spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the glaze for a spicy kick.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
5. Cook in Sauce: For a more succulent meatball, simmer them in the cranberry glaze for a few minutes after baking.

Recipe Variations

• Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Replace the cranberry sauce with pineapple sauce for a tropical twist.
• Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce instead of barbecue sauce and add sesame oil to the glaze.
• Herbed Meatballs: Add Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and egg substitute for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Fruit Variation: Swap cranberry sauce with raspberry or cherry for a different fruity flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Perfect for holiday parties, game days, or potlucks.
• Main Dish: Serve over rice or noodles with extra glaze for a hearty meal.
• Side Dish: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light dinner.
• Brunch: Serve alongside breakfast dishes for a unique brunch option.
• Buffet Style: Create a buffet table with meatballs as one of several appetizers.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?

• Yes, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs. Just heat them and coat with the glaze.

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them before baking. Just add additional cooking time if baking from frozen.

1. What can I use instead of ground beef?

• Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well.

1. Is there a substitute for breadcrumbs?

• You can use crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour as a substitute.

1. How spicy is the glaze?

• The glaze is mild, but you can add chili sauce for extra heat if desired.

1. Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

• Yes, the glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

1. What type of cranberry sauce should I use?

• Use homemade or canned cranberry sauce; both work well.

1. Can I bake the meatballs in a sauce?

• Yes, you can bake them in the glaze for extra flavor and moisture.

1. How do I know when the meatballs are done?

• They should be browned on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I use this glaze on other dishes?
   • Yes, the cranberry glaze is great on chicken, pork, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Cranberry Glazed Meatballs are the perfect addition to any gathering. Their delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to please guests of all ages. Whether served as a party appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are versatile, delicious, and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that will keep your friends and family coming back for more. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these Cranberry Glazed Meatballs, and watch them disappear at your next gathering!

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