Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines savory meatballs with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or game day, these skewers are sure to please a crowd with their delicious flavor and appealing presentation.

Ingredients List

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Cranberry Glaze:

• 1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For Assembly:

• Wooden or metal skewers (about 6 inches long)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze takes about 20 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (if using). Stir until well mixed and heated through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Skewers

1. Skewer Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Thread 2-3 meatballs onto each skewer.
2. Glaze the Meatballs: Brush the cranberry glaze over the meatballs on the skewers, or serve the glaze on the side for dipping.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the skewers for a pop of color.
2. Enjoy Warm: Serve the mini meatball skewers warm as a delicious appetizer!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze (per skewer, assuming 10 skewers):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	120
Protein	10g
Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika into the meatball mixture for added flavor.
• Use Different Meats: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for different flavor profiles.
• Experiment with Glazes: Try different sauces such as sweet chili sauce or teriyaki for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze pair well with:

• A selection of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• A refreshing salad or vegetable platter for a balanced spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meatball Mixture: Mix just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
2. Not Cooking Thoroughly: Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).
3. Skipping the Glaze: The cranberry glaze adds essential flavor, so don’t skip it!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 40 minutes, you can create Mini Meatball Skewers with Cranberry Glaze, a delicious and visually appealing appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With their savory meatballs and sweet-tangy glaze, these skewers are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if I don’t have skewers?

You can serve the meatballs without skewers, or use toothpicks for easy serving.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce works beautifully and adds a fresh flavor.