Pin it Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe is a holiday favorite that never fails to impress guests with its charming presentation and delicious flavors.
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).
- Bake Meatballs:
- Place meatballs on the 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 Decorations:
- 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 it These mini meatball Christmas trees always bring joy and smiles around the family table during the holidays.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 160 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 13 g (per serving 2 trees)
Pin it 
These mini meatball trees are sure to be a centerpiece of your holiday spread and delight guests young and old.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of meat can I use for the meatballs?
Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork works best for tender, flavorful meatballs, but you can adjust the ratio according to preference.
- → Can I prepare the mini meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs ahead and assemble the trees just before serving to keep the pretzels crisp.
- → What is the best way to bake the meatballs evenly?
Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and turn them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and golden color.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for the meatballs?
Vegetarian options like falafel or plant-based meatballs can be used for a similar texture and festive presentation.
- → How do I create the star toppers for the trees?
Slice yellow bell pepper into small stars using a mini star-shaped cutter or a sharp knife for decorative tree toppers.
- → Can I add extra flavors to the meatballs?
Yes, adding herbs, spices, or a small amount of pesto can enhance the taste and complement the other fresh ingredients.