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Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs


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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings as a main, 6-8 as an appetizer
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free panko)

Description

Tangy and slightly sweet meatballs coated in a cherry-cranberry BBQ glaze, perfect for parties or cozy dinners.


Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 small minced shallot
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup cherry preserves
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika


Instructions

  1. Mix ground meat with egg, panko, milk, shallot, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined.
  2. Shape mixture into 1–1.25 inch meatballs and chill for 15 minutes.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake meatballs for 12–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. While meatballs bake, simmer cranberries, cherry preserves, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and smoked paprika until thick.
  5. Toss baked meatballs in the warm glaze and return to the oven for an additional 3–5 minutes.

Notes

Chill shaped meatballs before cooking to prevent shrinking. Use a digital thermometer for accurate cooking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American