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cranberry rosemary beef meatballs recipe

Cranberry Rosemary Beef Meatballs

Avatar photoNina Miller
These Cranberry Rosemary Beef Meatballs combine the savory taste of beef with the sweet and tangy flavors of a cranberry glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8 meatballs
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Saucepan

Ingredients
  

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg

Cranberry Rosemary Glaze

  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
  • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the meatballs for 20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.

Serving

  • In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary. Heat over medium heat until smooth and bubbling.
  • Pour the glaze over the baked meatballs and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Serve the meatballs warm as an appetizer or alongside your favorite holiday sides.

Storage

  • Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor. Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
How to Serve: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the meatballs and glaze ahead of time. Cook and combine them just before serving.
Keyword cranberry rosemary beef meatballs, glazed meatballs, Holiday Appetizers