Savory Mini Meatball Christmas Trees

Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes

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

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

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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 7:

To assemble each Christmas tree: a 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. b Top with a bell pepper star. c Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a festive effect, if desired.

Step 8:

Arrange assembled trees on a platter and serve immediately.

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

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Assemble just before serving to keep pretzels crisp and enjoy a festive family moment.

Notes

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.

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Protect hands when handling hot pans, baking sheets, and cookware while cooking or removing dishes from the oven.

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These mini meatball Christmas trees add charm and flavor to any holiday gathering.

Your Questions Answered

→ How do I keep the pretzel sticks crisp?

Assemble the mini trees just before serving to prevent the pretzels from becoming soft or soggy.

→ Can I substitute the meatballs for a vegetarian option?

Yes, falafel or plant-based meatballs work well as a flavorful alternative.

→ What is the best way to bake the meatballs evenly?

Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and turn them halfway through baking for even cooking.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the mozzarella layers?

Try flavored mozzarella varieties or add a small dab of pesto for a rich, aromatic touch.

→ What should I use as a star topper for the trees?

Thinly sliced yellow bell pepper cut into star shapes creates a bright, festive topper.