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Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 small onion grated or finely diced
  • 1 ½ pounds very lean ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs like panko
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups cranberry sauce homemade or packaged
  • 1 cup tomato ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare for Baking
  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  • This will prevent the meatballs from sticking to the tray and make clean-up easier.
  • Step 2: Mix and Form Meatballs
  • In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix well until fully incorporated.
  • Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, aiming for a total of about 32 meatballs.
  • For uniformity, consider using a small ice cream scoop to shape the meatballs easily.
  • For a visual guide, refer to the accompanying video.
  • Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
  • Transfer the formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball reads 160℉.
  • This ensures the meatballs are fully cooked and safe to eat.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
  • While the meatballs are baking, start on the sauce.
  • In a large skillet, combine all the sauce ingredients and stir them together.
  • Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil.
  • Reduce the heat, then gently stir the baked meatballs into the sauce.
  • Cook until the meatballs are heated through, ensuring the flavors meld together.
  • Step 5: Garnish and Serve
  • If desired, garnish the finished meatballs with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
  • Serve the meatballs warm, ensuring everyone enjoys them at their best.

Notes

Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1200-1400
Protein: 90-100 g
Fat: 60-70 g
Carbohydrates: 130-150 g