Cranberry Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry meatballs are a delightful appetizer that combines savory and sweet flavors in every bite. Perfect for holiday parties or casual gatherings, this easy recipe uses pre-cooked meatballs and a tangy cranberry sauce to create a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the meatballs are fully heated.
- Step 3: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or a slow cooker set on warm. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary if desired, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or substitute the chili sauce with a hot sauce variant.
- Use turkey meatballs for a lighter option, or beef meatballs for a richer flavor.
- If you prefer a chunkier sauce, use whole berry cranberry sauce instead of jellied.
Storage
Store leftover cranberry meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry sauce a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and add the meatballs as directed.
Are these meatballs suitable for a slow cooker?
Absolutely. After combining the sauce and meatballs, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2 hours or on high for 1 hour, until heated through.
PrintCranberry Meatballs Recipe
These Cranberry Meatballs feature tender, pre-cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy homemade cranberry chili sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, this easy-to-make dish combines the festive flavor of cranberry sauce with the hearty taste of beef or turkey meatballs, creating a crowd-pleasing treat that’s quick to prepare and full of zest.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Meatballs:
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey)
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly heated, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet or pan, and let the meatballs simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until they are heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the meatballs along with the sauce to a serving bowl or place them in a slow cooker set to warm to keep them hot during serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or rosemary for added color and aroma.
Notes
- You can use either beef or turkey pre-cooked meatballs depending on your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- These meatballs can be kept warm in a slow cooker for parties and gatherings.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; just re-heat gently before adding the meatballs.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs enhances both presentation and flavor.
Keywords: cranberry meatballs, holiday appetizer, party meatballs, cranberry sauce recipe, easy meatballs, sweet and spicy sauce
