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–+ servings
Christmas Meatballs Recipe

Irresistibly Sweet and Savory Christmas Meatballs Recipe

This Christmas Meatballs Recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Refrigeration Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 2 pounds ground beef chuck can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 cup evaporated milk whole milk can be used if needed
  • 1 cup dry breadcrumbs panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce soy sauce works well as an alternative
  • 1 packet onion soup mix can make a blend using onion powder and seasoning
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup barbecue sauce can add a smoky twist
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar honey or maple syrup for a unique alternative
  • 1/4 cup port wine or sweet red wine grape juice can replace for non-alcoholic version
  • optional fresh cranberries or pomegranate arils for similar flavor

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Oven
  • saucepan
  • slow cooker
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Meatballs Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, evaporated milk, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the broiler to high and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Scoop portions of the meat mixture and roll into approximately 36 small meatballs, about 1 inch in size, then place them on the baking sheet.
  4. Broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and port wine over medium heat. Stir until smooth and bubbling for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Transfer the broiled meatballs to a slow cooker and pour the prepared sauce over them, cooking on HIGH for 1 hour.
  7. Alternatively, use a Dutch oven to stir meatballs into the saucepan with the sauce, cooking over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgSugar: 5gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Refrigerate the meat mixture for enhanced flavors. Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safety. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.

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