Cranberry Meatballs

INTRODUCTION

Cranberry meatballs are a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors. They are made with ground beef and a special sauce that includes cranberry and barbecue sauce. This recipe is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a family dinner. The meatballs are easy to make and will surely be a hit.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love cranberry meatballs for many reasons. First, they are tasty. The mix of beef and the sweet cranberry sauce creates a unique flavor. Second, they are simple to make. You only need a few ingredients and some easy steps. Third, they are very versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, add them to a main dish, or even use them in sandwiches. Lastly, they look great on a plate, making your meal special.

HOW TO MAKE Cranberry Meatballs

Making cranberry meatballs is easy. You will follow some simple steps to create a delicious dish.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make cranberry meatballs, you will need the following equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Nonstick baking sheet
• Large saucepan
• Oven
• Spoon for stirring

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 0.33333298563957 cup ketchup
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 (16 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 (18 ounce) bottle barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, eggs, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl until well combined. Shape into small meatballs and arrange on a nonstick baking sheet.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until browned, about 30 minutes, turning once.
4. Meanwhile, combine cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a large saucepan; heat and stir over low heat until smooth. Add meatballs and simmer for 1 hour. Serve warm.

 

HOW TO SERVE Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry meatballs can be served in many ways. You can place them on a platter for guests to enjoy as finger food. They can also be served with toothpicks for easy eating. If you prefer, you can serve them over rice or noodles for a more filling meal. Adding a side salad can complement the dish well.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Cranberry Meatballs

To store cranberry meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. If you want to freeze them, it is best to freeze the meatballs separately from the sauce. Use a freezer-safe container and they can last up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Cranberry meatballs go well with various side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Serve with steamed vegetables
• A side of mashed potatoes
• With fresh bread or rolls
• Pair with a light salad
• Serve over rice or pasta

VARIATIONS

You can change the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some variations you can try:

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
• Mix in some herbs like parsley or oregano for a fresh taste.
• Try using different types of sauces, like sweet and sour or teriyaki, instead of barbecue.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meatballs.

FAQs

1. Can I make cranberry meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just follow the baking instructions when you are ready to serve.

2. What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

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

The meatballs should be browned on the outside and cooked through the center. You can check by cutting one in half; it should not be pink inside.

4. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce can be used if you prefer. Just make sure it is smooth to mix well with the other ingredients.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cranberry Meatballs

Making cranberry meatballs ahead of time is simple. You can mix the ingredients and shape the meatballs a day before you plan to cook them. Store them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap. You can also prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When you are ready to cook, just bake the meatballs and heat the sauce together. This way, you can save time and enjoy your gathering more.

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