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Delicious Holiday Meatballs to Impress Your Guests!
Alyssa

Delicious Holiday Meatballs to Impress Your Guests!

Impress your guests with these delicious holiday meatballs! Easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for festive gatherings or family meals.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds ground beef chuck: This is the primary ingredient providing rich flavor and a satisfying texture. Using high-quality beef ensures tastier meatballs.
  • 1 14-ounce can evaporated milk: This adds moisture and richness, keeping the meatballs tender.
  • 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs: Acting as a binder breadcrumbs also help in giving structure to your meatballs.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This sauce offers a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.
  • 1 1 ounce packet onion soup mix: Adds flavor complexity and a slight saltiness that elevates the dish.
  • 2 cups ketchup: Forms the base of the sauce contributing sweetness and tang.
  • 1 cup brown sugar: This sweetener balances the acidity of the ketchup and complements the savory notes in the meatballs.
  • 1/2 cup port wine or other sweet red wine: Provides depth and richness to the sauce enhancing the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries optional: These add a burst of tartness and a festive touch to your dish.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 3 pounds ground beef chuck, 1 (14-ounce) can evaporated milk, 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 packet onion soup mix. Mix until just combined—be gentle to keep the meatballs tender. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture for at least 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to broil and position the rack about 6 inches from the top. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into approximately 36 small meatballs. Arrange them on the prepared sheets, leaving space between each for even cooking.
  4. Broil the Meatballs: Broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes until browned. Carefully turn each meatball and broil for another 2 minutes until browned on both sides. If you’re using multiple trays, iterate these steps accordingly.
  5. Make the Sauce (Dutch Oven Method): In a Dutch oven, combine 2 cups ketchup, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup port wine, and the remaining 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Gently add the browned meatballs, cover the pot, and simmer on low for 30-40 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
  6. Slow Cooker Method: If you prefer a slow cooker, dissolve the sauce ingredients by simmering them in a saucepan for 2 minutes. Transfer the browned meatballs to the slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and cook on HIGH for 1 hour until they are done.
  7. Finishing Touch: If you’re using fresh cranberries, add them to the pot 5 minutes before serving to allow them to soften and release juices without becoming mushy.