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Cranberry Glazed Meatballs

These crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside meatballs are coated with a tangy cranberry glaze, combining savory ground meat with a festive fruit sauce. The recipe involves browning the meatballs, sautéing aromatics, and simmering everything in a sweet and tart cranberry sauce for a glossy finish. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, they offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors with a hint of holiday cheer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef can substitute with turkey or chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko for extra crunch
  • 1 egg helps bind the mixture
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce homemade or canned
  • 1/4 cup orange juice brightens the glaze
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce adds umami depth
  • 1 tbsp oil for browning

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet or large frying pan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg in a mixing bowl, mixing until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs about 2 cm in diameter, placing them on a plate or tray.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the meatballs.
  4. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add finely diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
  6. Pour in the cranberry sauce, orange juice, and soy sauce, stirring to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and meatballs are cooked through.
  9. Check that the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has a rich, shiny coating.
  10. Serve the cranberry glazed meatballs hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.