COCKTAIL MEATBALLS WITH CRANBERRY GLAZE | Thanksgiving, Christmas, Party Food

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey reduces fat content while maintaining flavor.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats provide a healthier option with added fiber.

cranberry sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade cranberry sauce

💰Cheaper: jelly

Homemade can control sugar content, while jelly is often less expensive.

barbecue sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade barbecue sauce

💰Cheaper: ketchup

Homemade allows for lower sugar, while ketchup is a cheaper alternative.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well with your hands, ensuring everything is fully combined.

Preheat the oven to 400°F / 205°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with olive oil.

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a meatball, roughly 1 oz (30 grams). For efficiency, portion all the meat first onto a plate or board, then roll them into balls and place them on the baking sheet.

Bake for 20 minutes on the middle shelf—no need to turn them.

While the meatballs bake, prepare the glaze. Combine all ingredients in a deep skillet off the heat and mix thoroughly. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring until the glaze thickens and turns glossy. Remove from the heat.

When the meatballs are done, toss them in the skillet with the glaze until evenly coated.

Serve hot or cold, but they’re best slightly reheated. Provide cocktail skewers, or arrange them on a platter with skewers already inserted.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens