Save to Pinterest 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
- 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.
Save to Pinterest These festive mini trees bring my family together every holiday season for joyful gatherings and lots of laughter.
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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these fun and festive meatball trees as a highlight of your holiday celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of meat is best for the mini meatballs?
A mix of ground beef and pork creates a juicy and flavorful meatball, but ground beef alone also works well.
- → How do I keep the pretzel sticks crisp when assembling?
Assemble the trees just before serving to ensure pretzel sticks remain crunchy and fresh.
- → Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking at 200°C for 15–18 minutes yields juicy, evenly cooked meatballs with less oil.
- → What are good alternatives for the star-shaped bell pepper toppers?
Use small slices of yellow cheese cut into stars or thin carrot slices for a similar festive look.
- → Are there vegetarian options to replace the meatballs?
Falafel or plant-based meatballs serve as excellent vegetarian substitutes while maintaining structure and flavor.