Description
These Cranberry Glazed Meatballs offer a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, combining juicy baked beef meatballs with a tangy cranberry barbecue glaze. Ideal as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe is quick to prepare and full of festive flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nicely browned exterior.
- Prepare Cranberry Glaze: While the meatballs are baking, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Coat Meatballs: Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm cranberry glaze over them. Gently toss the meatballs to evenly coat them with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry glazed meatballs hot, optionally garnished with additional chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- The glaze can be prepared in advance and heated when ready to serve.
- These meatballs can also be kept warm in a slow cooker with the glaze for parties or gatherings.
