Christmas Cranberry Meatball Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (12-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chili sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 package (12 count) slider buns
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Brown the meatballs on all sides, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
7. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
8. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
9. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
10. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
11. Add the browned meatballs to the saucepan and stir to coat them evenly with the cranberry sauce.
12. Transfer the meatball mixture to a baking dish.
13. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
14. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the slider buns. You can lightly toast them if desired.
15. To assemble the sliders, place a few cranberry meatballs on each slider bun.
16. Spoon some of the cranberry sauce over the meatballs.
17. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired.
18. Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Perfect Holiday Appetizer: Cranberry Meatball Sliders
These Christmas Cranberry Meatball Sliders are the perfect appetizer for your holiday gatherings. They’re easy to make, festive, and absolutely delicious.
The combination of savory meatballs and sweet-tart cranberry sauce is a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for more. These sliders are also a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce from your holiday dinner.
Why These Sliders Are a Holiday Must-Have
These sliders offer a unique twist on classic meatball appetizers. They are perfectly sized for parties and easy to handle.
The homemade meatballs are tender and flavorful, while the cranberry sauce adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the richness of the meat. The sliders are also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any holiday buffet table.
They are quick, relatively easy to make, and perfect for entertaining.
Tips for Making the Best Meatball Sliders
Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Using fresh herbs like rosemary can really elevate this recipe.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Brown the meatballs before baking to seal in the juices and add flavor.
Simmer the cranberry sauce until it’s slightly thickened for a richer, more concentrated flavor.
Lightly toasting the slider buns will prevent them from getting soggy.
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
Variations and Customizations
Want to switch it up? There are many ways to customize these sliders to suit your taste.
Meatball Variations
Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
Add some chopped onions, garlic, or fresh herbs to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the cranberry sauce.
You could even try using pre-made, frozen meatballs for a super quick appetizer! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cranberry Sauce Variations
Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the cranberry sauce for a brighter flavor.
Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nutty flavor.
For a more savory cranberry sauce, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
Consider a store-bought cranberry sauce that is whole-berry if you prefer a less smooth texture.
Slider Bun Variations
Use Hawaiian rolls for a sweeter flavor.
Try using pretzel buns for a salty and savory option.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free slider buns.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Cranberry Meatball Sliders are perfect as an appetizer or a main course. Here are some serving suggestions and pairings.
Appetizer Presentation
Arrange the sliders on a platter and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Serve with toothpicks for easy handling.
Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or a spicy mayo.
Main Course Meal
Serve the sliders with a side of mashed sweet potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with a glass of sparkling cider or a light-bodied red wine.
These sliders are also great for potlucks and holiday buffets.
Holiday Parties and Buffets
These sliders can be made ahead of time. Keep them warm in a slow cooker or on a warming tray.
Set up a slider bar with a variety of toppings, such as sliced cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Offer a variety of slider buns, such as Hawaiian rolls and pretzel buns.
Label the sliders clearly so guests know what they’re eating.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Planning ahead can save you time and stress during the holidays.
Preparing the Meatballs Ahead of Time
You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
You can also form the meatballs and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Browning the meatballs ahead of time will save you time on the day of your party.
Making the Cranberry Sauce in Advance
The cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Reheat the cranberry sauce gently before adding the meatballs.
Consider making a double batch of cranberry sauce and using it for other holiday dishes.
Storing Leftover Sliders
Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the sliders in the oven or microwave before serving.
The sliders can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the sliders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To prevent the buns from getting soggy, remove the meatballs from the buns before storing them.
Nutritional Information and Considerations
Understanding the nutritional content can help you make informed choices.
Calorie Count and Macronutrients
A typical Cranberry Meatball Slider contains approximately 250-300 calories. This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
The macronutrient breakdown is approximately: 15-20 grams of protein, 20-25 grams of carbohydrates, and 10-15 grams of fat.
Consider using leaner ground meat to reduce the fat content.
Allergies and Dietary Restrictions
This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs and slider buns.
To make it dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
To make it egg-free, use an egg substitute or flaxseed meal.
Always check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are safe for your specific dietary needs.
Healthy Swaps and Modifications
Use whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber.
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the cranberry sauce.
Add some chopped vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the meatball mixture for added nutrients.
Serve the sliders with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad for a more balanced meal.
FAQ
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure they are fully cooked before serving.
Can I make the meatballs in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the meatballs in a slow cooker. Place the meatballs and cranberry sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
How do I prevent the slider buns from getting soggy?
Lightly toasting the slider buns before adding the meatballs will help prevent them from getting soggy.
Can I use a different kind of berry sauce?
Yes, other berry sauces may work. However, the distinct flavor of cranberry pairs very well with the meatballs and the holiday season.
Can I add other ingredients to the cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the cranberry sauce, such as orange zest, chopped nuts, or spices like cinnamon or cloves.
