Cranberry Meatballs

Introduction

Looking for an appetizer that’s both simple and spectacular? Look no further than Cranberry Meatballs! These little bites pack a punch with their perfect balance of sweet-tart cranberry sauce and savory meatballs. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table, and it’s a hit no matter the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just in the mood for something tasty, these meatballs will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Every time I make them, I’m reminded of how effortlessly they come together. I love the sweet and savory combo—it’s so addictive! The cranberry sauce adds that perfect zing, while the meatballs are juicy and tender, creating a mouthwatering bite every time. Plus, they’re super easy to make, with minimal prep and a short cook time, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the party.

What’s also great about this recipe is how versatile it is. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can customize the meatballs with different herbs or spices. And if you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is unlikely), they make an amazing addition to sandwiches or served over rice. Trust me, once you try these Cranberry Meatballs, they’ll quickly become a go-to for every gathering!

So if you haven’t made them yet, give them a try—and if you already have, you know exactly why they’re worth making again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons to make Cranberry Meatballs your next go-to recipe:

• Effortless Preparation: A few simple steps transform basic ingredients into a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course.
• Perfect for Holidays: With cranberry sauce as a star ingredient, they’re ideal for festive gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the sweetness or spice to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love these flavorful bites.
• Impressive Presentation: Their glossy cranberry glaze adds an elegant touch to your spread.
• Crockpot Convenience: Keep them warm in a slow cooker during parties for stress-free hosting.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients while delivering high-quality taste.
• Crowd Favorite: These meatballs always disappear quickly, leaving happy guests behind!

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 24 meatballs
• Calories per serving: Approximately 90 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Fat: 4g

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup cranberry sauce (smooth or chunky)
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet-tart flavor that balances the savory meatballs.
• Barbecue Sauce: Provides smokiness and depth to the glaze.
• Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat, but you can omit if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned.

Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes.
2. Simmer: Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.

Coat the Meatballs

1. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry glaze. Toss gently to coat each meatball evenly.
2. Simmer Together: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

How to Serve

Here are some creative ways to serve Cranberry Meatballs:

1. Appetizer Skewers: Stick each meatball with a toothpick for easy grabbing at parties.
2. Over Rice: Serve over steamed rice for a hearty main course.
3. With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
4. In Slider Buns: Turn them into mini meatball sandwiches.
5. Party Platter: Arrange them on a festive platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Additional Tips

Make the most of your Cranberry Meatballs with these handy tips:

1. Choose Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce excess grease.
2. Make Uniform Meatballs: Use a small cookie scoop to ensure even cooking.
3. Double the Recipe: These meatballs freeze well, so make a big batch for future meals.
4. Use Homemade Cranberry Sauce: For a personalized touch, whip up your own cranberry sauce.
5. Keep Warm in a Crockpot: Perfect for parties, keeping them warm and ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these fun variations:

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Cocktail Meatballs: Use a combination of cranberry and grape jelly for a classic party flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives or falafel.
• Asian-Inspired: Add ginger and sesame oil to the sauce for an Asian twist.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Cranberry Meatballs fresh with proper storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm frozen meatballs in the cranberry glaze on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
• Room Temperature: If you plan on serving the meatballs the next day, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking. However, for longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate them.
• Refrigeration: Once your Cranberry Meatballs have cooled down, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.
• Reheating in the Microwave: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply pop the meatballs in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
• Stovetop Reheat: Alternatively, you can reheat the meatballs on the stovetop. Just place them in a pan over medium heat and cover. Stir occasionally to avoid burning and ensure even warming.

FAQ Section

Got questions? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Below are some of the most common queries about Cranberry Meatballs, along with some helpful tips and tricks. Whether you’re wondering about substitutions, prep tips, or how to reheat leftovers, this section has the answers to make your cooking experience even easier. Let’s dive in!

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time, store them separately, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, frozen meatballs work great. Just heat them through thoroughly and coat them in the cranberry sauce for the perfect finish.

Can I make these meatballs spicy?

Yes, for those who like a little heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Adjust to your preferred level of spice!

Can I make these meatballs with a different type of meat?

Definitely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor. These meatballs are versatile and work with a variety of meats.

How long can I keep leftovers?

You can store the cooked meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months if you want to save them for later.

What’s the best way to reheat these meatballs?

Reheat the meatballs on the stove in the cranberry sauce or in the microwave, ensuring they’re heated through thoroughly.

Can I serve these meatballs as a main dish?

Yes! Serve them over rice, with mashed potatoes, or in slider buns for a complete and satisfying meal.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free. It’s an easy swap!

Print

Conclusion

Cranberry Meatballs are a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making them a hit at any party or family gathering. The combination of tender, juicy meatballs and the tangy, slightly sweet cranberry sauce is a flavor explosion everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite.

They’re quick and easy to prepare, and the best part is they can be customized with your favorite spices or added ingredients. Perfect for a holiday celebration or just a weeknight meal, these meatballs will disappear fast!

Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!