As I was assembling my holiday meal plan, I stumbled upon an unforgettable dish: Christmas Meatballs. The mere thought of these savory morsels, drenched in a sweet and tangy sauce, instantly transported me to cozy gatherings, laughter-filled kitchens, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. These Christmas Meatballs not only bring friends and family together but also are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, letting you enjoy the festivities without a last-minute kitchen frenzy. With just a few simple ingredients, this festive recipe elevates any holiday spread, ensuring you have more time to savor each moment. Are you ready to dive into a holiday favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds?
Why Are These Christmas Meatballs Amazing?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of savory beef coupled with a sweet-tangy cranberry sauce creates an unforgettable taste that perfectly complements any holiday gathering.
Time-Saving: With both slow cooker and Dutch oven options, you can prep these meatballs and use your time wisely while they cook to perfection.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance and simply reheat for a stress-free holiday feast. Looking for more make-ahead recipes? Check out my Make-Ahead Holiday Dishes.
Family-Friendly: These meatballs are a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring even the pickiest eaters leave the table happy.
Festive Touch: The addition of cranberries brings a festive flair that not only looks great but adds a delicious twist. You’ll definitely want to include them in your holiday traditions!
Create unforgettable memories with these delicious Christmas Meatballs and let their sweet and savory profile steal the spotlight at your festive celebrations!
Christmas Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- Ground beef chuck – 3 pounds of this juicy cut gives the meatballs a rich flavor and tender texture.
- Evaporated milk – 1 (14-ounce) can helps create a moist and tender meatball that won't dry out during cooking.
- Dry breadcrumbs – ¼ cup acts as a binder, holding everything together while adding a delightful crunch.
- Worcestershire sauce – 2 tablespoons, divided; this adds a depth of flavor that enhances the savory notes in the meat.
- Onion soup mix – 1 (1 ounce) packet infuses the meatballs with a delicious onion flavor that elevates the overall taste.
For the Sauce
- Ketchup – 2 cups; this classic ingredient forms the base of the sauce and balances sweetness and tanginess.
- Brown sugar – 1 cup adds a warm sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory meatballs.
- Port wine or sweet red wine – ½ cup intensifies the sauce with richness, making each bite even more delightful.
- Fresh cranberries – 1 cup, optional; these add a festive touch and a burst of tart flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Get ready to prepare the most delightful Christmas Meatballs that your family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 pounds of ground beef chuck, 1 can of evaporated milk, ¼ cup of dry breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 packet of onion soup mix. Mix with your hands until well blended. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
Step 2: Preheat the Broiler
Position an oven rack 6 inches from the top and preheat your broiler. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. While the oven heats up, remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator and begin shaping it into approximately 36 small meatballs, ensuring they are even in size for uniform cooking.
Step 3: Broil the Meatballs
Place the shaped meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking. Broil in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are nicely browned and cooked through, turning them halfway for a golden exterior. Remove the meatballs from the oven and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of ketchup, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of port wine, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth, about 5-7 minutes; it should bubble slightly indicating it's ready.
Step 5: Slow Cooker Method
Transfer the broiled Christmas Meatballs to a slow cooker and pour the prepared sauce over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and cook on HIGH for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to blend and the meatballs to absorb the sweet-tangy goodness from the sauce.
Step 6: Dutch Oven Method
For the Dutch oven method, place the meatballs back into the saucepan with the sauce. Cook over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. The meatballs should be heated through and tender, curling up with flavors that make your Christmas Meatballs irresistible.
Helpful Tricks for Christmas Meatballs
Perfect Meatball Texture: Ensure you mix the beef mixture gently; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency for ultimate tenderness.
Flavor Boost: Let the meat mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This not only helps the flavors meld but also makes the meatballs easier to shape.
Avoid Burning: When broiling, keep a close eye on the meatballs as they can brown quickly. Turn them halfway through to achieve that lovely golden color without burning.
Keep the Sauce Smooth: Stir the sauce continuously while heating to prevent any lumps. A well-mixed sauce ensures each bite of your Christmas Meatballs is perfectly coated.
Cranberry Optional: If using cranberries, consider adding them to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain their texture while adding a festive flair.
Christmas Meatballs: Flavor Variations
Get ready to take your Christmas Meatballs to the next level with these fun and delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a zesty surprise! A little heat can elevate your flavor profile wonderfully.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the meatball mixture for an irresistibly aromatic touch. The fragrance will carry throughout your holiday kitchen!
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Cheese Burst: Incorporate shredded cheese into the meatball center for a gooey surprise. Imagine the melty goodness awaiting as you take a bite!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or finely chopped mushrooms. You'll still get that satisfying texture while keeping it entirely meat-free!
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Cranberry Sauce Delight: Combine additional cranberry sauce with your ketchup for extra sweetness and tartness. It'll brighten up your sauce and add a pop of color.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the finished meatballs just before serving. This adds a tangy-sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the sauce.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meat mixture for a delightful smoky essence. The depth of flavor will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient!
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Savory Sweet Potatoes: Try substituting some of the breadcrumbs with mashed sweet potatoes for a unique texture and subtle sweetness that compliments the dish perfectly.
Feel free to blend and match these variations to discover your family's favorite twist on classic Christmas Meatballs! Each bite will not only delight your taste buds but also swirl new flavors throughout your holiday celebrations.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Meatballs
Fridge: Place cooked and cooled Christmas Meatballs with the sauce in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: Flash-freeze raw or broiled meatballs on a parchment-lined baking tray before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last for 2-3 months. Be sure to freeze the sauce separately!
Reheating: Thaw frozen meatballs and sauce in the fridge overnight before reheating. For cooked meatballs, heat them gently with the sauce over medium-low heat until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: Consider broiling the meatballs and preparing the sauce ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers for up to 2 days to ease your holiday cooking stress.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can broil the meatballs and prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while giving you stress-free entertaining options. Once cool, simply transfer the cooked meatballs into airtight containers alongside their sauce, then refrigerate. When it's time to serve, reheat the meatballs on medium-low heat, gently stirring until warmed through, and you'll have delightful, ready-to-enjoy Christmas Meatballs that taste just as delicious as when they were freshly made. Planning ahead not only saves you time but also lets you focus on making wonderful memories with your loved ones.
What to Serve with Christmas Meatballs?
Bring the holiday spirit to life with delectable sides that beautifully complement these festive meatballs.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight is perfect for soaking up that sweet-tangy sauce. Plus, the garlicky aroma will fill your home with cheer!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelly, savory bites bring a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the meatballs beautifully.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they offer a comforting base to the robust flavors of the Christmas Meatballs while providing a warming contrast.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal, cutting through the richness of the sauce and meatballs.
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Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: These are a decadent side dish that pairs perfectly with the juicy meatballs, with layers of creamy goodness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
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Festive Cranberry Sauce: Elevate your meatball experience with a side of homemade cranberry sauce. The tartness enhances the dish's flavor while adding extra holiday cheer.
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Mulled Wine: Serve steaming mugs of fragrant mulled wine alongside your meal to warm the heart and soul, making your gathering even more inviting.
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Pumpkin Pie: Cap off your feast with this spiced, sweet dessert, providing a lovely, pumpkin-flavored note that resonates with the festive season.
Christmas Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for the meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using ground beef chuck with about 80% lean content. This cut provides the rich, juicy texture that you'll love in your Christmas Meatballs. Avoid extra-lean versions, as they can result in dry meatballs.
What’s the best way to store leftover meatballs?
Very! To store your Christmas Meatballs, place them in an airtight container with the sauce. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re cooled down before sealing to maintain their moisture.
Can I freeze Christmas Meatballs?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, let the broiled meatballs cool completely. Flash-freeze them on a parchment-lined baking tray for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. They are best used within 2-3 months. Just remember to freeze the sauce separately, leaving a bit of space in the container for expansion.
What if my meatballs are falling apart during cooking?
Don't worry, it happens! If you find that your Christmas Meatballs are falling apart, it may be due to overmixing or not enough binder. Make sure to mix gently and ensure you're using enough breadcrumbs and evaporated milk. If they still seem loose, adding a bit more breadcrumbs—or even an egg—can help bind them better.
Can I use a different type of wine for the sauce?
Absolutely! While I often recommend port wine for its rich flavor, you can substitute it with any sweet red wine you prefer, like Merlot or even a fruity grape juice for a non-alcoholic option. Just keep in mind that each type of wine will give your sauce a slightly different taste profile.
Are these meatballs safe for pets?
Very! While the ingredients are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, be cautious with using onions in the onion soup mix, as they can be toxic to pets. If you wish to share, consider making a batch without onions for your furry friends.
Delicious Christmas Meatballs with a Sweet Cranberry Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine ground beef, evaporated milk, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape mixture into 36 small meatballs.
- Broil meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, port wine, and remaining Worcestershire sauce. Stir continuously and heat for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Transfer meatballs to a slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on HIGH for 1 hour.
- Alternatively, place meatballs back into the saucepan with sauce and cook over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes.
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