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+ servings
Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry Meatballs That Steal the Holiday Show

Cranberry meatballs are an easy, festive appetizer, perfect for holiday gatherings that will leave your guests raving.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Pork you can ask a butcher for lean pork loin if pre-packaged isn’t available
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly for a gluten-free option
  • 1 large Egg acts as a binder and adds moisture
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder substitute with fresh minced garlic for stronger taste
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust according to your taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Cranberry Sauce choose jellied or whole based on preference
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Sauce optional, include according to spice preference
For the Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley sprinkle on top before serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Shape the mixture into approximately 32 medium-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  5. In a skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and chili sauce over medium-high heat until it boils, then reduce to low.
  6. Carefully add baked meatballs to the warm sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Transfer meatballs to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Using lean ground pork and precise portioning can enhance the texture and flavor of the meatballs. Serve with toothpicks and extra sauce for a festive presentation.

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