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Festive Christmas Meatballs arranged as a delicious appetizer for a holiday gathering.
Lady Maria

Amazing Christmas Meatballs

These Christmas Meatballs are a savory-sweet holiday appetizer that will be the star of your gathering. Tender meatballs are simmered in a tangy cranberry sauce, creating a festive and flavorful dish. They are easy to make and perfect for serving a crowd.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chili sauce
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • knife
  • large skillet
  • paper towels
  • Large saucepan or slow cooker
  • whisk
  • Spoon or ladle

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don't overmix.
  2. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning frequently, until browned on all sides. Drain excess fat on paper towels.
  4. In a large saucepan or slow cooker, whisk together the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon (if using).
  5. For slow cooker: Gently add the browned meatballs to the sauce, making sure they are mostly submerged. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  6. For stovetop: Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Don't overmix the meat. Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs. Customize the sauce by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or apple cider vinegar. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. They can be served on skewers, in a chafing dish, or with a variety of dipping sauces. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.