Pin Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This delightful recipe has become a holiday favorite with my family, bringing smiles and festive cheer every time.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs: 500 g ground beef (or half beef, half pork), 1 small onion finely minced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 large egg, 40 g breadcrumbs, 40 g grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, ¾ tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp milk, 2 tbsp olive oil (for baking or frying)
- For Assembly and Decoration: 24 cherry tomatoes, 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), 48 fresh basil leaves, 24 pretzel sticks (or sturdy rosemary sprigs), 1 yellow bell pepper (for star toppers), Fresh chives or parsley finely chopped (optional for tinsel)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, minced onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until just combined do not overwork.
- Shape Meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into 48 small meatballs (about 2 2.5 cm diameter each).
- Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake Meatballs:
- Bake for 15 18 minutes turning halfway until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Stars:
- While meatballs bake slice the yellow bell pepper into small star shapes using a mini cutter or knife.
- Assemble Trees:
- Thread a pretzel stick (or rosemary sprig) with a cherry tomato at the base followed by a basil leaf a mozzarella ball another basil leaf and finally two mini meatballs stacked on top of each other. Top with a bell pepper star. Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a festive effect if desired.
- Serve:
- Arrange assembled trees on a platter and serve immediately.
Pin My family gathers around the table delighted to build and eat these festive meatball trees together each holiday season.
Notes
Try flavored mozzarella or add a dab of pesto for extra flavor. Pair with sparkling white wine or festive punch.
Required Tools
Baking sheet Mixing bowl Parchment paper Sharp knife Mini star-shaped cutter (optional) Skewers or pretzel sticks
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs Milk Wheat (gluten) possibly soy (if breadcrumbs or cheese processed). Always check labels for allergens and cross-contamination warnings.
Pin This recipe not only brings festive fun but also makes a charming appetizer that guests will remember.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Using ground beef or a mix of beef and pork offers the best flavor and texture for these bite-sized meatballs.
- → Can these meatballs be baked or fried?
Both baking and frying work well, but baking on parchment ensures even cooking and less grease.
- → How is the Christmas tree shape assembled?
Mini meatballs, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves are threaded alternately on pretzel sticks topped with a bell pepper star.
- → What can be used instead of pretzel sticks?
Sturdy rosemary sprigs or similar firm skewers can replace pretzel sticks for the base.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for these bites?
Falafel or plant-based balls can substitute the meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.