Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These Amylu Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs are a flavor explosion, combining the sweet tartness of cranberries with the fiery kick of jalapenos, all wrapped up in juicy, tender meatballs. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy meal without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey or chicken (lean ground beef also works well)
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatballs cook evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
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Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Gently mix the ground meat, cranberries, jalapeno, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Use a small ice cream scoop for uniformity if you like.
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Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve immediately and enjoy! These meatballs are fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with your favorite pasta sauce, a side salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Success:
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Don't overmix the meatball mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
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Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno before mincing. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the meatball mixture.
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Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Variations:
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Cranberry Sauce Meatballs: Substitute store-bought cranberry sauce for the fresh cranberries. This offers a quicker option, although fresh cranberries provide a brighter flavor.
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Cheese Stuffed Meatballs: Create a delicious surprise by adding a small piece of mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the center of each meatball before baking.
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Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 3-5g
This Amylu Cranberry Jalapeno Meatball recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors is sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful taste for yourself! It's a simple addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. These best recipes are all about making delicious food simple.