Description
Sweet, tangy, and perfectly tender, these cranberry-glazed meatballs are an irresistible appetizer or main dish, perfect for Father’s Day celebrations!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving dish and pour the warm cranberry glaze over them. Toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and extra cranberries. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make ahead: Cook the meatballs and glaze separately, then reheat before serving.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty main dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
