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The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and feasting with family and friends. Festive recipes play a significant role in bringing people together, creating warm memories that linger long after the last bite. Among the myriad of traditional dishes that grace our tables during this time, one standout is the Festive Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. This unique and flavorful dish not only captures the essence of the holidays with its vibrant colors and aromas but also presents a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will impress your guests.

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1/4 cup barbecue sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)

Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix until just combined–be careful not to overmix.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.

          Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is heated through and well combined.

            Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Toss gently to coat each meatball thoroughly in the sauce.

              Simmer: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

                Garnish and Serve: Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cranberries and sprigs of thyme or parsley, if desired.

                  Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cranberry Meatballs as an appetizer or part of your festive holiday feast!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6