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Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Delightful Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs bring a unique twist to classic meatballs, combining savory richness with a fruity barbecue sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Appetizers & Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground chicken lean protein
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs for binding
  • 1 Large egg acts as a binder
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 small Finely diced onion for sweetness
  • 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley for freshness
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika for smokiness
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup Cherry preserves or sweet cherry jam for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup base for sauce
  • 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar for acidity
  • 1/4 cup Brown sugar for caramelization
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for umami
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for tang
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder for added savoriness
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper optional for spice

Equipment

  • Oven
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • saucepan

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl and gently mix.
  3. Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs and arrange them on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 18–20 minutes until fully cooked and golden.
  5. Prepare the sauce by simmering cranberry sauce, cherry preserves, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a saucepan for about 8–10 minutes.
  6. Transfer the meatballs into the saucepan with the sauce and gently toss to coat. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  7. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 25gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

When shaping meatballs, use dampened hands to prevent sticking. Ensure even spacing on the baking sheet for proper cooking.

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