Pin It Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This cozy chicken stew is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort during the cold months.
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef (or half beef, half pork): For the meatballs
- 1 small onion, finely minced: Adds flavor and moisture
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For aroma and taste
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients
- 40 g breadcrumbs: Helps texture
- 40 g grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Fresh herbal notes
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Earthy flavor
- ¾ tsp salt: Seasoning
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Spice
- 2 tbsp milk: Moisture
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for baking or frying): Cooking medium
- 24 cherry tomatoes: For assembly
- 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): Layering
- 48 fresh basil leaves: Flavor and decoration
- 24 pretzel sticks (or sturdy rosemary sprigs): Structural base
- 1 yellow bell pepper (for star toppers): Decoration
- Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for tinsel): Garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- 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:
- Make 48 small meatballs (about 2–2.5 cm diameter each).
- Bake meatballs:
- Place meatballs on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15–18 minutes turning halfway until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare star toppers:
- Slice 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 two mini meatballs stacked on top of each other. Top with a bell pepper star and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
- Serve:
- Arrange assembled trees on a platter and serve immediately.
Pin It Making these mini meatball Christmas trees has become a joyful tradition in our family, lighting up holiday parties with smiles and compliments.
Notes
Try flavored mozzarella or add a dab of pesto for extra flavor. Pair with sparkling white wine or festive punch.
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs, Milk, Wheat (gluten), possibly soy (if breadcrumbs or cheese processed). Always check labels for allergens and cross-contamination warnings.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 trees): Calories 160, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 7 g, Protein 13 g.
Pin It These festive mini meatball trees bring fun and flavor to your holiday table every year.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What meats can I use for the meatballs?
Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork provide a juicy, flavorful base. For variation, try lean ground turkey or chicken, ensuring the mixture stays moist.
- → How do I keep the pretzel sticks crisp?
Assemble the mini trees just before serving to maintain pretzel stick crunchiness and prevent sogginess from moist ingredients.
- → Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, bake the meatballs in advance and cool them completely. Assemble shortly before serving for the best texture and appearance.
- → What can I substitute for the yellow bell pepper stars?
Use thinly sliced red or orange bell peppers cut into star shapes, or edible herbs like rosemary sprigs for a festive topper.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for this dish?
Falafel or plant-based meatballs can replace traditional meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly option while keeping the stacked presentation.
- → How long should I bake the meatballs?
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway, until meatballs are golden and cooked through.