CHRISTMAS EVE MEATBALLS
These Christmas Eve Meatballs are tender, juicy, and full of festive flavor. Simmered in a rich, tangy-sweet sauce, they make the perfect holiday appetizer or comforting main dish for your Christmas table.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vinegar apple cider or white
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape and Bake: Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Simmer: Add cooked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer for 10–15 minutes on low heat until coated and flavorful.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes or rice.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare meatballs and sauce separately a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
- Customizing the Flavor: Add a touch of chili flakes for heat or cranberry sauce for a festive twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Christmas Eve buffets, family dinners, or served on toothpicks for parties.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.