Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe

Ingredients for Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce
To prepare these delightful Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
Zest of 1 large orange – Adds a bright, citrusy aroma
1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and gives a light texture
1/2 cup milk – Ensures a moist and tender texture
1/4 cup finely chopped onion – Adds subtle savory flavor
1 egg – Acts as a binder for the meatball mixture
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the savory element
For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:

1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce – Provides the classic holiday flavor
1 cup barbecue sauce – Adds a smoky, tangy base to the sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish, adds a pop of color and freshness
Optional Substitutions:
For those with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or dairy-free milk as substitutes. Ground turkey can also be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
How to Make Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
To begin making these Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, orange zest, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each meatball for even cooking.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and slightly browned on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Coat the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the saucepan with the cranberry-orange sauce. Gently stir to ensure each meatball is coated in the delicious sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce!
Serving Suggestions for Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce
These Holiday Meatballs with Cranberry and Orange Sauce pair well with a variety of sides and appetizers:

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet and tangy meatballs.
Holiday Cocktails: A festive cranberry-orange spritzer or mulled wine pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Crisp Salad: Serve alongside a crisp, green salad with an orange vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.