Description
These juicy beef meatballs are tossed in a tangy cranberry glaze for the perfect holiday appetizer or festive dinner. Swapping pork for lean ground beef brings a hearty, savory depth—balanced with bright citrus, sweet cranberry, and just a hint of heat. Great for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 small onion, grated
3 lbs lean ground beef
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
4 large eggs
⅔ cup tomato ketchup
4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
Zest of 1 orange (optional twist)
For the Cranberry Glaze:
4 cups cranberry sauce (whole berry or smooth)
2 cups tomato ketchup
6 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp chili flakes or hot sauce (optional)
Zest of 1 orange (optional for brightness)
Instructions
Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine beef, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire, parsley, garlic, orange zest, salt, and pepper.
Mix until just combined. Roll into 1½-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through and browned.
Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, stir together all glaze ingredients. Simmer over medium heat until bubbly and slightly thickened (5–7 mins).
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
Nutrition
- Calories: 95
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 7g