Save to Pinterest Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe brings joy and fun to family celebrations with its festive presentation.
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℃ (400℉). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Meatball 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).
- Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake Meatballs:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes turning halfway until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
- Create Pepper Stars:
- 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.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings smiles and happy memories around the holiday table.
Notes
Try flavored mozzarella or add a dab of pesto for extra flavor. 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.
Save to Pinterest A perfect festive appetizer that impresses with its look and taste.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of meat is used for the meatballs?
Ground beef or a mix of half beef and half pork creates tender and flavorful meatballs.
- → How are the mini meatballs shaped and cooked?
The meat mixture is formed into small balls about 2–2.5 cm in diameter and baked at 200°C for 15–18 minutes until golden.
- → How are the edible Christmas trees assembled?
Skewers or pretzel sticks hold layers of cherry tomato, basil leaves, mozzarella balls, and stacked mini meatballs, topped with a star-shaped bell pepper.
- → Can the meatballs be prepared in advance?
Meatballs can be baked ahead, but assembly should be done shortly before serving to keep pretzels crisp.
- → Are there options for dietary preferences?
Vegetarian alternatives like falafel or plant-based meatballs can be used for a meat-free version.