Save Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
I love serving these mini meatball Christmas trees at parties because they are as delightful to eat as they are to look at.
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, 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 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 This recipe always brings joy to my family during the holidays as we assemble and share these edible trees together.
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
Per serving (2 trees) Calories 160 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 7 g Protein 13 g
Save This festive appetizer adds a touch of creative fun and flavor to any holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork work well, providing a balance of flavor and texture.
- → Can I bake or fry the meatballs?
Baking is recommended for even cooking and easier cleanup, but frying in olive oil yields a crispy exterior.
- → How do I assemble the mini meatball Christmas trees?
Thread a pretzel stick with cherry tomato, basil leaves, a mozzarella ball, two mini meatballs, and top with a bell pepper star.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for these bites?
Yes, falafel or plant-based meatballs can replace the meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- → How should I store assembled bites before serving?
Assemble just before serving to keep pretzels crisp and maintain freshness.