The aroma of simmering marinara and sizzling meat fills the air as I prepare for a heartwarming holiday feast. This year, I decided to elevate our family tradition with my beloved Christmas Eve Meatballs. These delightful morsels are not only a festive treat, but they're also incredibly simple to make—perfect for busy nights filled with holiday cheer. With a combination of ground beef and pork, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, these meatballs promise a satisfying burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, they're a fantastic crowd-pleaser, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. So, are you ready to make your holiday celebrations a little more delicious? Let's dive into this recipe and create some unforgettable memories together!
Why are Christmas Eve Meatballs so special?
Comforting Flavors: These meatballs are infused with a harmonious blend of herbs and rich meat that make every bite feel like a warm hug.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for your holiday gatherings, they’re sure to delight family and friends alike.
Quick Preparation: With just a 30-minute prep time, you can spend more time enjoying the festive season!
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served on their own, over pasta, or in a sub, their deliciousness shines through.
Flavorful Sauce: The marinara sauce seeps into the meatballs, creating a savory explosion with every mouthful. If you love delightful rolls, try preparing these with some homemade Strawberry Roll Cake for a festive dessert!
Christmas Eve Meatballs Ingredients
• Get ready to create a holiday masterpiece with these essential ingredients!
For the Meatball Mixture
- Ground beef – a rich base that adds savory flavor to your Christmas Eve meatballs.
- Ground pork – brings moisture and a delightful sweetness to the mix.
- Breadcrumbs – help bind the meatballs together, ensuring they stay juicy and tender.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – adds a cheesy richness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Chopped fresh parsley – brightens up the meatballs with a fresh, herbal note.
- Finely chopped onion – infuses the meatballs with flavor and sweetness as they cook.
- Minced garlic – imparts an aromatic kick that complements the meats perfectly.
- Large eggs – act as a binding agent, helping the meatballs hold their shape.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors, making each bite irresistible.
- Black pepper – offers a subtle heat that balances the dish beautifully.
- Dried oregano – provides a warm, earthy flavor typical of traditional Italian meatballs.
- Dried basil – adds a hint of sweetness and aromatic complexity.
For Cooking
- Marinara sauce – envelops the meatballs in a flavorful bath, perfect for soaking up all their goodness.
- Olive oil – used for frying, gives the meatballs a golden, crispy exterior.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re set to create mouthwatering Christmas Eve meatballs that your family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Meatballs
Step 1: Mix the Meat
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork. Use your hands or a spatula to mix them thoroughly until they are fully combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be well-blended with no streaks of different meats remaining, creating a cohesive base for your Christmas Eve meatballs.
Step 2: Add the Flavor
To the meat mixture, add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of chopped fresh parsley, ¼ cup of finely chopped onion, 3 minced cloves of garlic, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful meat mixture that embodies the essence of holiday cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While you’re shaping the meatballs, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the meatballs to perfection. Meanwhile, this will give you about 10 minutes to prepare the meatballs and get everything ready for the next step, ensuring a seamless cooking process as you prepare for your Christmas Eve feast.
Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking, yielding approximately 24 to 30 meatballs. You'll know they’re ready when they are tightly formed and hold their shape. Lay them on a plate or parchment paper as you work, ready to be browned next.
Step 5: Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the meatballs without overcrowding the pan. Brown each side for 3-4 minutes, turning them gently until they are golden brown. This step enhances the flavor and creates a beautiful crust on your Christmas Eve meatballs.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to a baking dish. Pour a jar of marinara sauce (24 oz) over the top, ensuring each meatball is well-coated. The sauce will not only add moisture as they bake but will also infuse the meatballs with a rich, savory flavor that is signature to this comforting dish.
Step 7: Bake the Meatballs
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the meatballs are cooked through. Look for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for the meatballs. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the meatballs remain juicy.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let the Christmas Eve meatballs rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. After a brief wait, serve these delightful meatballs with pasta, on a sub, or on their own – they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table!
Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Meatballs
Mix Gently: Combine the meats without overworking them; this keeps your meatballs tender and juicy.
Uniform Size: Ensure all meatballs are shaped the same size—about 1 inch—to ensure even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: When browning meatballs, leave enough space in the skillet to avoid steaming them; this creates that lovely crispy exterior.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure safety.
Rest Before Serving: Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking to enhance flavor and keep them juicy—this is a key step for your Christmas Eve meatballs!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Eve Meatballs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For even easier meal prep, you can also brown the meatballs and assemble them in the baking dish with marinara sauce up to 3 days ahead of time; just cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them in the preheated oven, baking for 20-25 minutes until they’re hot and bubbly. This makes for a delightful, hassle-free dinner that’s just as delicious as if you made it on the spot!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover Christmas Eve meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This prevents sticking and ensures easy access for future meals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Sauce Storage: Consider storing the marinara sauce separately for best texture upon reheating; use it within a week when refrigerated.
What to Serve with Christmas Eve Meatballs
The holidays are all about delightful gatherings and delicious meals, making it essential to complement your meatballs with perfect pairings.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the savory flavors of meatballs beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of marinara sauce, turning your meal into a mouthwatering experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs, adding vibrant color and crunch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add a delightful sweetness and earthy flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.
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Pasta with Olive Oil: Tossed in a simple olive oil and garlic sauce, the pasta serves as a perfect bed for meatballs, providing a heartier meal.
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Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Zinfandel complements the robust flavors of the meatballs, enhancing your festive dinner with warmth and character.
Prepare a feast that nourishes your soul, celebrating moments spent together with these delicious accompaniments!
Christmas Eve Meatballs: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your Christmas Eve Meatballs uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for a perfect binder.
- Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that’ll elevate your meatballs.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for an added heat that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded mozzarella for an ooey-gooey satisfaction that will have everyone asking for more.
- Turkey Alternative: Swap out the ground meats for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still delivers flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: For a plant-based delight, replace the meat with lentils and mushrooms, blended with spices for a hearty substitute.
- Baked Goodness: Instead of frying, bake the meatballs for an easier, healthier option without sacrificing the deliciousness.
- Savory Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor by adding savory ingredients like chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the mix.
These variations make it simple to customize your Christmas Eve Meatballs, ensuring they fit your and your loved ones' preferences perfectly. And don't forget, serving them with a delightful side like our Raspberry Roll Cake or pairing them with a comforting dish creates a festive feast to remember!
Christmas Eve Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat is best for Christmas Eve meatballs?
Absolutely! A mixture of 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork creates the perfect balance for flavor and moisture. The beef provides that rich, savory base, while the pork adds sweetness, resulting in deliciously tender and juicy meatballs.
How should I store any leftover Christmas Eve meatballs?
Very good question! Store your leftover Christmas Eve meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If they’re cooled properly before sealing, you’ll keep them tasting delightful!
Can I freeze my Christmas Eve meatballs? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching each other. Freeze them for about 2 hours, then transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method prevents them from sticking together, making it super easy for you to pull them out for quick dinners!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Christmas Eve meatballs?
Great question! To reheat, first thaw the meatballs overnight in your refrigerator. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and warm them for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle heating helps keep them juicy and flavorful!
Can I use alternatives for allergies or dietary restrictions?
For sure! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can swap out the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. If someone is allergic to eggs, you can replace the two large eggs with ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce. It binds the mixture well! Feel free to adjust herbs and spices per preference too—everyone deserves a piece of this holiday joy!
How can I tell if the meatballs are cooked through?
You’re right to ask! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This not only guarantees they’re safe to eat but also ensures they remain perfectly tender so you can enjoy every flavorful bite of your Christmas Eve meatballs!
Heavenly Christmas Eve Meatballs for a Cozy Family Feast
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- skillet
- baking dish
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For Cooking
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- a few tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
- Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, large eggs, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil to the meat mixture. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Shape the meat mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter, yielding approximately 24 to 30 meatballs.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown each meatball for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and pour the marinara sauce over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving with pasta, on a sub, or on their own.
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