Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs: A Festive Delight

Name: Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Recipe By:

Ava Mack

Posted:

December 15, 2025

Updated:

December 15, 2025

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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful holiday treat that perfectly combine sweet and savory flavors. Imagine tender meatballs bursting with juicy cranberries, enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce that fills your kitchen with the aroma of festive cheer. savory cranberry and brie tartlets.

Every holiday season, my family eagerly anticipates these delightful morsels. They have become a staple at our gatherings, sparking laughter and joy as we reminisce about past feasts and the delightful chaos that comes with them.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules
The unique blend of flavors creates a memorable taste experience that everyone will love
These meatballs are visually stunning on any buffet table, adding a pop of color and festive flair
They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes, fitting perfectly into any holiday meal

I still remember the first time I made these meatballs for a family gathering; they disappeared faster than I could say “seconds, please!”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for a lighter meatball without sacrificing flavor.
Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm berries; they give the best tartness and color to the sauce.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for added texture; they help bind the meatballs together.
Eggs: One large egg will help hold everything together nicely.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; use fresh rather than dried for better flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch to both the meatballs and sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Cranberry Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade for convenience; it adds richness to the dish.
Soy Sauce: A splash enhances umami flavor; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Dried Thyme: This herb complements the dish beautifully; feel free to substitute with fresh if available.
Pineapple Juice: It balances the tartness of cranberries with sweetness; use 100% juice for the best flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you get everything ready.

Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, thyme, and egg. Use your hands to mix until just combined—this ensures tender meatballs.

Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls about one inch wide. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Create Cranberry Sauce: While meatballs bake, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, pineapple juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and bubbly.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once baked, transfer hot meatballs into the saucepan with cranberry sauce. Simmer on low heat for about five minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs! Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these will surely be a hit at any gathering! easy Christmas cheese ball recipe.

You Must Know

These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a holiday hit
They combine sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for parties
The vibrant color and aroma will have everyone flocking to the buffet table
Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can focus on celebrating

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the meatballs, then bake them while simmering the cranberry sauce. This ensures that flavors meld beautifully and saves time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add spices like ginger for a zingy twist. Personalizing enhances the dish’s flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When rolling meatballs, wet your hands to prevent sticking and achieve smooth surfaces
Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and adjust seasoning according to taste preferences

Sharing these festive Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs at last year’s family gathering was unforgettable. Christmas fruitcake cookies Everyone couldn’t stop raving about them, and I felt like a culinary superstar! peppermint swirl cookies.

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are heated through before serving.

What can I serve with Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs?

For more inspiration, check out this Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.

Pair these meatballs with toothpicks, rice, or crusty bread for delightful bites.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular breadcrumbs for a safe option.