Christmas Meatballs

Christmas Meatballs Recipe

Christmas meatballs are a holiday favorite, combining festive spices and rich flavors for a dish that feels celebratory. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these meatballs can be served with cranberry sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a holiday salad. This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a light texture)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for a festive touch)
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice

Glaze:

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole or jellied)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional for a deeper holiday flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. Add the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and allspice. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Shape the Meatballs

1. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the mixture into evenly-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Roll each portion between your palms to create a round shape. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

3. Cook the Meatballs

• Option 1: Baking
  Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
• Option 2: Pan-Frying
  Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Prepare the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and cloves.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Combine Meatballs and Glaze

1. If using the oven, transfer the baked meatballs to an oven-safe dish. Pour the glaze over the top and toss gently to coat. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
2. For pan-fried meatballs, return them to the skillet, pour the glaze over, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat evenly.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve the glazed meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy picking. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
• As a Main Dish: Pair the meatballs with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple rice pilaf. A side of green beans or brussels sprouts balances the flavors beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: The meatballs can be shaped and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. The glaze can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed.
• Freezing: Cooked meatballs freeze well. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop with the glaze.
• Customize Flavors: For a tangier glaze, add a splash of orange juice or zest. Prefer spicier meatballs? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

Christmas meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, blending holiday spices and a sweet-tangy glaze for a truly festive dish. They’re sure to become a staple at your family gatherings!