It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. These cranberry meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any gathering or a comforting family meal. The juicy meatballs are complemented by a luscious cranberry sauce that adds a unique twist. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they are sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground turkey or beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on one serving, the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey or beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 3. Mix until well combined. 4. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. 5. Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. 6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce. 7. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce over medium heat. 8. Stir until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. 9. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan and coat with the sauce. 10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for a richer flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If fresh cranberries are available, consider making a homemade sauce for a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. They are also great as a party appetizer served with toothpicks and extra cranberry sauce on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
- Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the baking step; it helps them hold their shape.
- Be careful not to overcook the meatballs; they should be juicy.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste for a personalized flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use a cookie scoop for consistent meatball sizes. – Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking for better flavor. – Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. – Serve with toothpicks for easy eating at parties. 
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just make sure they are fully thawed and heated through before adding to the cranberry sauce.
What type of meat works best for meatballs?
Ground turkey is lean and healthy, but ground beef or pork can provide a richer flavor. Choose based on your dietary preferences.
How can I make the sauce less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of cranberry sauce or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the sauce before serving.
What sides go well with cranberry meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair well with these meatballs, providing a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Cranberry meatballs are a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, making them a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they are sure to please everyone around the table. Try this recipe to enjoy a unique and delicious twist on classic meatballs!
Cranberry Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey or beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce over medium heat.
- Stir until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Once the meatballs are done, add them to the saucepan and coat with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
