Save Festive, bite-sized meatballs stacked into charming edible Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This is my favorite appetizer during the holidays because it combines cute presentation with delicious flavors that everyone enjoys.
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 Meatballs:
- 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 for Baking:
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Star and Tinsel:
- 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 My family always enjoys gathering around the kitchen to assemble these mini trees together which makes the experience even more special.
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 
These mini meatball Christmas trees add festive cheer to any holiday table and are sure to impress your guests.
Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As
- → What type of meat is best for the meatballs?
Ground beef is recommended, but a blend with pork adds extra juiciness and flavor.
- → Can I bake or fry the meatballs?
Baking is preferred for even cooking and less oil, but frying gives a crispier texture.
- → How do I keep pretzel sticks crisp when assembling?
Assemble just before serving to maintain the crunch of pretzel sticks or rosemary sprigs.
- → What alternatives can I use for the star topper?
Sliced yellow bell pepper cut into stars works beautifully, but small cheese shapes or herbs can also add a festive touch.
- → Are there options for a vegetarian version?
Substitute meatballs with plant-based options like falafel for a flavorful vegetarian variation.
- → How many servings does the dish make?
The recipe yields 24 mini trees, serving approximately 8 to 12 guests as appetizers.