Pin It Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- Shape the mixture into 48 small meatballs (about 2–2.5 cm diameter each).
- Step 4:
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
- Step 6:
- While meatballs bake, slice the yellow bell pepper into small star shapes using a mini cutter or knife.
- Step 7a:
- 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.
- Step 7b:
- Top with a bell pepper star.
- Step 7c:
- Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a festive effect, if desired.
- Step 8:
- Arrange assembled trees on a platter and serve immediately.
Pin It Notes
Pair with sparkling white wine or festive punch. Assemble just before serving to keep pretzels crisp.
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 It This festive appetizer is sure to impress guests with its charm and flavors. Enjoy creating and sharing these mini meatball Christmas trees!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork provides the best flavor and texture for tender, juicy meatballs.
- → How can I keep the pretzel sticks from becoming soggy?
Assemble the mini trees just before serving to ensure the pretzel sticks stay crisp and sturdy.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in advance and then assemble the mini trees shortly before serving.
- → What can I use as a star topper besides bell pepper?
You can use small cheese cutouts or yellow cherry tomatoes shaped with a knife for a festive star alternative.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for the meatballs?
Yes, plant-based balls or falafel can be used to create a vegetarian version of these charming stacks.