Christmas Eve Braised Meatballs: A Holiday Tradition

When it comes to Christmas Eve, my family has one non-negotiable: meatballs. But not just any meatballs—these are my homemade Christmas Eve Braised Meatballs, tender and bursting with flavor, lovingly simmered in a rich marinara sauce. There’s something so festive about the warm, comforting aroma of these meatballs cooking on the stovetop while holiday music plays in the background. It’s like a hug in food form.

Whether you serve them over pasta, with crusty bread, or even as a stand-alone appetizer, these meatballs are guaranteed to be the star of your Christmas Eve spread. My Christmas Eve preference is serving them with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce!

Why These Meatballs Are So Special

1. The Perfect Holiday Flavor: A blend of herbs, warm spices, and a rich tomato sauce that feels just right for the season.
2. Comfort Food Magic: Hearty, saucy, and oh-so-satisfying—just what you need on a chilly December night.
3. Make-Ahead Ease: You can prepare these meatballs in advance, leaving you more time to soak up the holiday cheer.
4. Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or serving style to fit your family’s traditions.

Braised Meatballs

Homemade Christmas Eve Braised Meatballs, tender and bursting with flavor, lovingly simmered in a rich marinara sauce.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:30 minutes mins

Cook Time:45 minutes mins

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 LB ground beef
• 1 LB ground pork
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 medium onion finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 14 oz can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Step 1: Mix the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the mixture, or the meatballs may become dense.
• Step 2: Shape and Sear: Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and set them aside on a plate. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
• Step 3: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
• Step 4: Braise the Meatballs: Carefully nestle the meatballs back into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
• Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Top the meatballs with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. Serve them over pasta, with crusty bread for dipping, or on their own as a hearty appetizer.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Make It Ahead: The meatballs and sauce taste even better the next day. You can prepare them a day in advance and gently reheat before serving.
• For a Lighter Option: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with this dish.

 

Servings: 6 people