Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs holiday platter

Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Bake and Simmer
  • Cuisine: American / Holiday

Description

These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate festive appetizer! Juicy, tender meatballs are simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce with hints of holiday spice — perfect for parties or family gatherings. 🎄✨


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.

3. Place meatballs on the baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through.

4. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until smooth.

5. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to absorb flavor.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm as a party appetizer or festive main dish.


Notes

💡 Tip: Use frozen meatballs for a quick shortcut — just simmer them directly in the cranberry sauce until heated through!


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 recipe