Cranberry meatballs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet, creating an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy meatballs enveloped in a tangy cranberry sauce that warms your soul like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs
- How to Make Cranberry Meatballs
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs
- What are Cranberry Meatballs made of?
- How do I make Cranberry Meatballs gluten-free?
- Can I freeze Cranberry Meatballs?
- What dishes pair well with Cranberry Meatballs?
- Conclusion for Cranberry Meatballs
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I whip up these cranberry meatballs, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and delicious aromas wafted from the kitchen. They’re perfect for holiday celebrations or a casual weeknight dinner when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with loved ones.
- The flavor profile balances sweetness and savoriness perfectly, making it irresistible.
- These meatballs are visually appealing with their glossy sauce and vibrant color.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be served as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier choice while still delivering juicy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and help bind the meatballs together.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and color to the meatballs; use flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth of flavor; if you prefer fresh garlic, feel free to substitute!
Onion Powder: A little onion powder enhances the savory profile without overwhelming the dish.
For the Sauce:
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; look for options with minimal added sugar to keep it balanced.
Chicken Broth: This helps thin out the sauce while adding richness; low-sodium is best for controlling salt levels.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a zesty kick that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (or a spoon if you’re feeling fancy) to mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Step 3: Form Meatballs
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—aim for about one inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have some space between them so they can puff up nicely.
Step 4: Bake
Slide those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want them reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Prepare Sauce
While those meatballs are basking in their oven glory, whisk together cranberry sauce, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard in a medium saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. It should be smooth and well combined—like magic!
Step 6: Combine
Once baked, transfer your glorious meatballs into the sauce pan with the cranberry mixture. Gently stir to coat each meatball evenly in that tangy goodness.
Serve these cranberry meatballs warm over rice or alongside crusty bread—let’s be real, they deserve their own fanfare! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about family gatherings gone by—or start new traditions with this fantastic dish!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the meatballs, mixing your ingredients well. While they bake, simmer the cranberry sauce on the stove for that perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Time management is key to achieving harmony in every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes! Customize the sauce with orange juice or even apple cider vinegar for a zesty flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or pan-sear them for crispy edges while warming through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to mix your meatball ingredients gently to keep them tender and avoid overworking the meat.
- Use an ice cream scoop for evenly sized meatballs, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Don’t skip the simmering step; it melds flavors beautifully!
Sometimes I serve these cranberry meatballs at family gatherings, and they disappear faster than you can say “pass the gravy!” Everyone is always asking for seconds—it’s a hit every time!
FAQs
What are Cranberry Meatballs made of?
Cranberry meatballs consist of ground meat, such as chicken or turkey, combined with breadcrumbs and various seasonings. The unique aspect is the cranberry sauce, which typically includes fresh or canned cranberries, sugar, and spices. You can also use a mix of fruit juices and vinegars to create a sweet-tart glaze that perfectly complements the meatballs. This dish is great for gatherings or as a tasty appetizer.
How do I make Cranberry Meatballs gluten-free?
To make cranberry meatballs gluten-free, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including sauces and seasonings, are gluten-free as well. By following this adjustment, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising on dietary needs.
Can I freeze Cranberry Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cranberry meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw meatballs, place them on a baking sheet to firm up before transferring them to a freezer bag for longer storage. If you’ve already cooked them, allow the meatballs to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months and can be reheated directly from frozen.
What dishes pair well with Cranberry Meatballs?
Cranberry meatballs pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal. Roasted vegetables add a healthy touch, while a simple green salad provides freshness. For an elegant presentation at gatherings, try placing them on skewers with toothpicks for easy serving.
Conclusion for Cranberry Meatballs
Cranberry meatballs are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that elevate any meal or gathering. Using alternatives like chicken or turkey ensures a tasty dish without pork products or alcohol. By following simple tips for preparation and storage, you can enjoy these versatile meatballs year-round. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a main course, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Cranberry Meatballs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Cranberry meatballs are a delicious fusion of savory and sweet flavors, enveloped in a tangy cranberry sauce that warms the heart. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, these tender meatballs are simple to prepare yet visually stunning with their glossy finish. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish, and be ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 1 inch).
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with space between them and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).
- While the meatballs bake, whisk together cranberry sauce, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard in a medium saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once baked, gently coat each meatball in the sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
