Introduction
The festive season is a time for gathering with loved ones, celebrating traditions, and, of course, indulging in delicious dishes that make the occasion even more special. Among the many culinary delights that grace holiday tables, cranberry glazed meatballs stand out as a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that embody the spirit of the season.
These meatballs not only offer a delightful taste experience but also have the versatility to be served as appetizers or as a main dish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, cranberry glazed meatballs add a festive touch that everyone will love.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Servings: 6
– Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground turkey or beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey or beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir until the mixture is heated through and smooth.
6. Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry glaze. Toss to coat the meatballs evenly.
7. Serve the cranberry glazed meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
The Appeal of Cranberry Glazed Meatballs
Meatballs have a long-standing significance in culinary traditions across the globe, often representing comfort food and family gatherings. The unique combination of turkey or beef paired with a cranberry glaze highlights an incredible flavor balance that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Cranberries, with their tartness and vibrant color, are a quintessential seasonal ingredient that elevates any holiday dish. This recipe not only celebrates the flavors of the season but also embodies the warmth and joy of festive feasts.
Ingredients Breakdown
Exploring the components of cranberry glazed meatballs reveals a delightful tapestry of flavors and textures. Ground turkey or beef serves as the foundation, providing essential protein and a hearty taste. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese enhances the meatballs’ texture, making them tender yet firm.
Fresh herbs like parsley and aromatic garlic infuse the meatballs with freshness, while an egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring each meatball holds its shape during cooking. Seasonings such as onion powder, salt, and black pepper deepen the flavor profile, making every bite satisfying.
The cranberry glaze itself is a crucial element of this dish. You can opt for store-bought cranberry sauce or make your own, depending on your preference. Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup bring a pleasant sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries. Additionally, the inclusion of soy sauce and apple cider vinegar introduces umami and acidity, enhancing the glaze’s complexity. Warm spices like cinnamon and allspice contribute to the overall depth and warmth of this festive recipe, making it an unforgettable addition to your holiday table.
Tips for Preparing Cranberry Glazed Meatballs
Step-by-Step Preparation
When preparing your cranberry glazed meatballs, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and thoroughly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Mixing the meatball ingredients is a crucial step. Combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings in a large bowl. Be careful not to overmix; doing so can lead to tough meatballs. Aim for just enough mixing to combine the ingredients without compacting the mixture.
When shaping your meatballs, aim for a uniform size, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This consistency ensures even cooking. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion the mixture. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each ball for even heat circulation.
Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know they are done when they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Crafting the Cranberry Glaze
While your meatballs are baking, you can prepare the cranberry glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Stir continuously to avoid sticking and burning, which can compromise the flavor.
To achieve the right consistency, let the glaze simmer for about 10 minutes. It should thicken slightly but remain pourable. Taste the glaze and adjust the sweetness or acidity according to your preference, adding more sugar or vinegar as needed.
Coating and Serving the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the cranberry glaze over them. Gently toss the meatballs to ensure each one is evenly coated. Use a slotted spoon to arrange the glazed meatballs on a serving platter, allowing excess glaze to drip off.
For a beautiful presentation, garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. These not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish’s aroma.
Consider serving these meatballs as finger foods at parties, accompanied by toothpicks for easy eating. Alternatively, they can shine as a main dish when paired with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Cranberry glazed meatballs offer a well-rounded nutritional profile. Each serving typically contains around 200 calories, with a healthy balance of protein and fat, especially if you opt for ground turkey instead of beef.
Ground turkey is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. If you’re catering to dietary preferences, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Cranberry glazed meatballs are a versatile and appealing option for festive occasions. Their sweet and tangy flavor profile makes them a crowd-pleaser, bringing people together during celebrations. Whether you choose to serve them as appetizers or a main dish, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Don’t hesitate to add this dish to your holiday feast repertoire. With their delightful taste and beautiful presentation, cranberry glazed meatballs are destined to become a memorable addition to your gatherings. Enjoy the cooking process and the smiles they bring to your table!
30-Minute Thanksgiving Cranberry Glazed Meatballs
Ingredients
- 0.5 pound ground turkey or beef
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey (or beef), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and allspice. Stir continuously until the mixture is heated through and well combined, about 5 minutes.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and carefully toss them in the cranberry glaze until they are well coated.
- Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. Serve warm as a delightful holiday appetizer or alongside mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.