Name: Christmas Meatballs
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds ground beef chuck; 1 (14-ounce) can evaporated milk; 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, divided; 1 (1 ounce) packet onion soup mix; 2 cups ketchup; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup port wine or other sweet red wine; 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional)

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These Christmas Meatballs Recipe is perfect for adding a delightful touch to your holiday celebrations. Picture this: a cozy gathering with family and friends, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of freshly cooked meatballs wafting through your home. This recipe not only brings comfort but also encapsulates the spirit of the season. The combination of flavors in these meatballs is truly special, thanks to the rich ingredients and the delightful sauce. Each bite is a burst of tender meat paired with a sweet, tangy glaze that elevates your holiday dining experience. And the best part? It’s easy to prepare, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on these festive bites!

Why This Recipe Works

This Christmas Meatballs Recipe combines a rich blend of ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors—savory meat infused with sweet, tangy sauce. The use of port wine adds a festive touch, enhancing the overall taste and giving these meatballs a unique twist that is sure to impress your holiday guests.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Meatballs Recipe

These Christmas meatballs are more than just a dish; they evoke the warmth of the holiday season with their comforting flavors. Perfectly tender and packed with a burst of sweetness, they serve as both an appetizer and a main dish delight. Plus, this recipe allows for flexibility in preparation, whether roasting in the oven or using a slow cooker, making it ideal for any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

3 pounds ground beef chuck
1 (14-ounce) can evaporated milk
1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, divided
1 (1 ounce) packet onion soup mix
2 cups ketchup
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup port wine or other sweet red wine
1 cup fresh cranberries (optional)

How to Make Christmas Meatballs

Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, evaporated milk, breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix. Mix gently until just combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Adjust the oven rack to the highest position and preheat the oven to broil. Line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Shape the Meatballs

Take the chilled meat mixture and portion it into approximately 36 small meatballs. Ensure you leave space between each meatball on the lined baking sheet for even cooking.

Broil the Meatballs

Broil the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes, until they start to brown. Carefully turn each meatball and broil for another 2 minutes on the opposite side. If cooking multiple trays, repeat the broiling process accordingly.

Prepare the Sauce in a Dutch Oven

For the Dutch oven method, combine ketchup, brown sugar, port wine, and the remaining tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce in the pot. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.

Transfer Meatballs to Sauce

Carefully place the broiled meatballs into the Dutch oven, cover, and let simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Prepare Sauce in a Slow Cooker

For the slow cooker method, start by mixing the ketchup, brown sugar, port wine, and remaining Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Combine Meatballs and Sauce in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned meatballs to the slow cooker, pour the prepared sauce over them, and cook on HIGH for 1 hour, ensuring they reach 160°F and the sauce thickens.

Serve and Enjoy

If you are using fresh cranberries, add them to the sauce about 5 minutes before serving for a pop of freshness. Keep the Dutch oven covered on low or switch the slow cooker to LOW until ready to serve. Enjoy the festive flavors of your Christmas meatballs!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious meatballs as a stand-alone appetizer, or pair them with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting main dish. They also make a great filling for meatball subs or a hearty addition to holiday charcuterie boards.

Tips for Success

Be sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step but it truly enhances the flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach the safe temperature of 160°F for optimal flavor and safety.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Experiment with different sauces—teriyaki or sweet chili for an Asian twist, or barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Add chopped herbs, like parsley or sage, to the meat mixture for added aroma.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These meatballs also freeze well; simply cool them completely and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

2. What is the best way to reheat meatballs?
Reheat them in a saucepan on medium heat until warmed through, or place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

3. Can I use other wines in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute port wine with any sweet red wine or even grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.

4. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F.

5. Are these meatballs suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just ensure they are stored in a sealed container.

These Christmas meatballs offer a beloved recipe that is sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday festivities. With their sweet and savory flavors, ease of preparation, and festive presentation, they embody the essence of joyful gatherings. Whether served as appetizers or paired with your favorite sides, they guarantee to be a hit at any holiday celebration. Enjoy the spirit of Christmas with every bite!