Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and impressive? Then look no further! These Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are the perfect solution for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering. This recipe blends the savory richness of meatballs with the sweet and tart tang of cranberry sauce, creating a flavor combination that's utterly irresistible. It’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to elevate your meal game with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra zing!)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Aim for consistent size for even cooking.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Preparing the Cranberry Sauce:
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the cranberry sauce. Combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest (if using) in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Once the meatballs are cooked, gently stir in about half of the cranberry sauce. Serve immediately, drizzling the remaining cranberry sauce over the top.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce Meatballs:
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, reduce the amount of sugar.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the meatballs.
- These meatballs are also delicious served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatballs: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese over the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Herby Cranberry Sauce: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the cranberry sauce for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
These Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that are easy to prepare. They're a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a more formal occasion. Enjoy!