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–+ servings
Christmas Meatballs

Savory Christmas Meatballs with a Sweet Cranberry Twist

This Christmas Meatloaf balances savory and sweet flavors, featuring cranberries for a festive touch, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 3 pounds ground beef chuck the heart of your meatloaf; choose a good quality for the best flavor.
  • 1 14-ounce can evaporated milk adds moisture and richness, ensuring a tender meatloaf.
  • 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory depth of flavor.
  • 1 1 ounce packet onion soup mix adds a punch of flavor without any hassle.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups ketchup creates a luscious glaze that balances sweetness and tang.
  • 1 cup brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on top, complementing the cranberries.
  • 1/2 cup port wine or other sweet red wine infuses a subtle sweetness and depth, a must for holiday magic.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries adds a festive touch with bursts of tartness that brighten the flavors.

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

How to Make Christmas Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your meatloaf bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust.
  2. Combine the ground beef, evaporated milk, dry breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, onion soup mix, ketchup, brown sugar, port wine, and cranberries in a large mixing bowl. Mix until everything is well blended.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf, compacting it well to ensure it holds together during baking.
  4. Transfer the meatloaf into a baking dish, ensuring it's evenly spread for even cooking.
  5. Brush the top with the remaining tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful glaze.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The top should be nicely browned.
  7. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

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