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Cranberry-Orange Glazed Meatballs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that make for an irresistible dish. The tartness of cranberry combined with the brightness of fresh orange creates a glaze that elevates simple meatballs into a gourmet experience. Whether served as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a main dish alongside rice or pasta, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Cranberry Glazed Meatballs

Indulge in the festive flavors of Cranberry-Orange Glazed Meatballs, a perfect dish for holiday gatherings or cozy winter dinners. These easy-to-make meatballs combine savory turkey with a luscious sweet-tart glaze that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Quick to prepare and bursting with seasonal flavor, they're ideal for busy nights or as an impressive appetizer. Try them tonight and elevate your meal to gourmet status!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground turkey or chicken

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Cranberry Glaze:

1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Zest of one orange

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven:

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

      Make the Meatballs:

        In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey or chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

          Form the Meatballs:

            Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs. You should have around 20-24 meatballs.

              Sear the Meatballs:

                In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish.

                  Prepare the Glaze:

                    In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, orange zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

                      Combine Meatballs with Glaze:

                        Once the glaze is ready, pour it over the meatballs in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly coated.

                          Bake:

                            Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

                              Serve:

                                Remove from the oven and let the meatballs cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with extra glaze and garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

                                  Enjoy these delightful Cranberry-Orange Glazed Meatballs as a perfect appetizer or main dish at your next gathering!

                                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6