Cherry Chipotle Sweet-Heat Holiday Meatballs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, gently combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just mixed.
3. Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. While the meatballs bake, combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and slightly thickened.
7. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
8. Simmer together for an additional 5 minutes so the flavors fully combine.
9. Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice for a festive main dish.

Variations :

• Swap cherry preserves for cranberry or raspberry for a seasonal twist.
• Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for deeper holiday warmth.
• Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for subtle festive spice.

Tips :

• Do not overmix the meatball mixture—this keeps them tender.
• Adjust the chipotle amount gradually to control the heat level.
• If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a tablespoon of water or broth.
• These meatballs reheat beautifully and are ideal for make-ahead entertaining.