Description
Cheesy Baked Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground pork (or beef/turkey)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried sage (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Cranberry Sauce:
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
1. Make the Meatballs:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the tops with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
2. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and a pinch of salt.
Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Serve:
Plate the baked meatballs with a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
#CheesyMeatballs #CranberrySauce #EasyDinner #SavoryAndSweet #ComfortFood #HolidayAppetizer #MeatballLovers #YummyEats
