Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce

There’s something magical about the holiday season, and these Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce capture that spirit perfectly. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce that combines the festive flavors of cranberry and orange. It’s a dish that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds, perfect for any holiday gathering.

The beauty of these meatballs lies in their versatility. They can be served as an elegant appetizer or a comforting main dish, depending on your preference. The meatballs themselves are a blend of savory goodness, with a hint of warmth from the spices. But the real star of the show is the Cranberry Orange Sauce. It’s a burst of flavor that’s both bright and comforting, with the tartness of cranberries balanced perfectly by the sweetness of orange.

But don’t let the elegance fool you. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, with ingredients that are readily available. The meatballs can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy holiday schedules. Plus, the combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests, leaving them craving more.

So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.

Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce are a festive and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. These tender meatballs are simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce that combines the bright flavors of cranberry and orange. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The meatballs are a blend of savory goodness, with a hint of warmth from the spices. The Cranberry Orange Sauce adds a burst of flavor that’s both bright and comforting, making it a standout dish that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re looking for an elegant appetizer or a comforting main dish, these Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce are a versatile and delicious option that’s perfect for any gathering.

Exciting Story:

Every time I make these Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce, I’m reminded of the joy they bring to my family and friends. The combination of tender meatballs and tangy-sweet sauce is always a hit, and the festive flavors make them perfect for the holiday season.

One year, I decided to serve these meatballs at our annual holiday party. Among the variety of dishes, my Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce stood out. Everyone raved about the unique flavor combination and the elegant presentation. Since then, they’ve become a staple at our holiday gatherings, big or small. There’s just something about these meatballs that brings people together and leaves them smiling.

Why These Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce Are a Must-Try

These Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce are a must-try for their festive flavors and elegant presentation. The combination of tender meatballs and tangy-sweet sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.

The Cranberry Orange Sauce adds a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist, with the tartness of cranberries balanced perfectly by the sweetness of orange. This dish is sure to impress your guests, leaving them craving more

What You Need For Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
• Orange zest (optional)

How to Make Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Mix until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Cranberry Orange Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Meatballs: Add the meatballs back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, until cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve: Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and orange zest, if desired. Enjoy these festive meatballs as an appetizer or a main dish.

Tips For Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce:

• Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatballs and sauce up to a day ahead and reheat them gently before serving.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Meat Variations: Feel free to use a combination of ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
• Sauce Add-Ins: Try adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra touch of flavor.
• Serving Ideas: These meatballs can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a heartier meal.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Lean Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content.
• Reduce Sugar: You can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce by half without sacrificing too much flavor.
• Add Veggies: Increase the amount of onion or add finely chopped carrots to the meatball mixture for added nutrition.

Closing For Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce:

And there you have it! These Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce are a festive and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your meatballs turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delicious inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions For Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce:

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
   • Yes, you can use frozen meatballs to save time. Just follow the package instructions for cooking and then simmer them in the Cranberry Orange Sauce.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in the sauce before serving.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. How do I prevent the meatballs from becoming tough?
   • To prevent tough meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and be gentle when shaping them.
5. Can I use a different type of fruit in the sauce?
   • Yes, you can use lingonberry or raspberry preserves instead of cranberry sauce for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I make this dish in the slow cooker?
   • Yes, you can cook the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, until the meatballs are tender.
7. What can I serve with the meatballs?
   • Serve the meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad for a complete meal.
8. Can I omit the cinnamon?
   • Yes, you can omit the cinnamon if you prefer. The sauce will still be delicious with just the natural flavors of the ingredients.
9. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
   • The meatballs are done when they’re no longer pink in the center and the sauce has thickened slightly.
10. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
    • Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
11. Can I add herbs to the meatballs?
    • Yes, you can add fresh herbs like parsley or sage to the meatball mixture for an extra touch of flavor.
12. How do I store leftover meatballs?
    • Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the sauce before serving.