Cranberry and Pistachio Meatballs are a flavorful twist on the classic meatball, combining savory ground meat with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries and the nutty crunch of pistachios. These meatballs are tender and juicy, with bursts of flavor in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer, a festive addition to your holiday spread, or served over rice or pasta for a hearty meal, they’re sure to impress with their unique taste and vibrant presentation. Pair them with a tangy cranberry glaze or a creamy dipping sauce for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground pork or turkey
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/3 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped cranberries, pistachios, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional): While the meatballs bake, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, and ground ginger in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Toss the cooked meatballs in the cranberry glaze or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with additional chopped pistachios or fresh herbs, if desired.
Cranberry and Pistachio Meatballs are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, making them an unforgettable addition to any meal or gathering.
