Irresistible Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever experienced the joy of biting into a perfectly cooked meatball, only to be surprised by a burst of tangy sweetness? If you haven’t tried Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze, you’re in for a delightful treat. These skewers combine tender meatballs with a glossy cranberry glaze that balances savory and sweet in each mouthful. Perfect as an appetizer or a fun addition to any gathering, they promise an unforgettable flavor experience.

Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for special occasions. One of those occasions was our annual holiday party, where these Mini Meatball Skewers made their debut. The aroma of baked meatballs mingling with the sweet scent of cranberry sauce filled the house, creating an inviting atmosphere that brought everyone together. Whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual get-together, these skewers are sure to impress your guests and evoke cherished memories.

Key Ingredients For Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while ensuring your meatballs remain juicy.
• Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
• Egg: One large egg acts as a binder to keep your meatballs moist and firm during cooking.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the meatballs.
• Cranberry Sauce: Choose whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture and natural sweetness in the glaze.

For the Sauce:

• Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth and tanginess to balance the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey amplifies the sweetness and creates a sticky glaze on your meatballs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Second Step : Mix Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.

Third Step : Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Fourth Step : Bake Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C).

Fifth Step : Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the meatballs bake, combine cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until heated through and well combined.

Sixth Step : Assemble Skewers

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven. Thread them onto skewers and drizzle generously with cranberry glaze before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional glaze for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavor; choose high-quality ground beef and homemade or premium cranberry sauce if possible.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
• Add Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or your favorite seasoning blend to the meat mixture.

Preparation Tips

To create the best Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe, start by selecting high-quality ground meat. You can use beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference. Mixing breadcrumbs and herbs into the meat helps enhance the flavor and texture. For a moist meatball, consider adding grated cheese or finely chopped vegetables.

Cooking Methods

You can prepare Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze using different methods. Baking is a healthier option that ensures even cooking. Alternatively, grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the glaze perfectly. Pan-frying gives you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze can serve as appetizers or main dishes. Pair them with fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving them with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli to add extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers from your Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their texture and flavor. You can also freeze the cooked skewers for longer storage; just be sure to thaw them properly before reheating.

Presentation Ideas

This Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Simple green salad
• Garlic bread

FAQs

How can I make Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze healthier?

To create a healthier version of Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze Recipe, opt for lean meats such as ground turkey or chicken. You can substitute breadcrumbs with oats or whole-grain alternatives to increase fiber content. Adding finely shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture not only boosts nutrition but also keeps your meatballs moist.

Can I prepare these skewers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze ahead of time. Form the meatballs and assemble them on skewers, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Just ensure you cook them within one day for best quality.

What dips pair well with Mini Meatball Skewers?

Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze are delicious on their own, but pairing them with dips enhances their flavor profile. Consider serving them with tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, or herbed yogurt dip for added taste dimensions. These pairings elevate your dish while providing variety.

Can I use a different glaze for my meatballs?

Certainly! While this recipe features a cranberry glaze, feel free to experiment with other flavors like teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or sweet chili sauce. Each glaze will impart its unique taste to the Mini Meatball Skewers, allowing you to customize this dish according to your preferences and seasonal ingredients available.

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Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze

• Author: jenny
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the flavor-packed delight of Mini Meatball Skewers with a luscious cranberry glaze. These bite-sized treats balance savory meatballs with a tangy-sweet sauce, making them perfect for appetizers or party platters. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests, this dish evokes warm memories of festive gatherings and family celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch) and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 70°C).
5. Meanwhile, heat cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a saucepan over medium heat until combined.
6. Remove meatballs from the oven, thread onto skewers, drizzle with glaze, and serve.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 skewers (105g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Incorporate grated cheese or finely chopped vegetables into the meat mixture for added moisture and flavor. Experiment with different glazes like teriyaki or sweet chili for variety.