Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory and tangy flavors in a rich, festive sauce. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for an easy appetizer, these meatballs are a guaranteed hit. They’re quick to make, versatile, and bursting with holiday cheer!

What Are Cranberry Meatballs?

Cranberry Meatballs are bite-sized morsels of fully cooked meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry-based sauce. The blend of cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce gives these meatballs their irresistible flavor, while the optional Dijon mustard adds a touch of sophistication.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Uses frozen, fully cooked meatballs to save time.
• Perfect for Entertaining: A holiday favorite that works as an appetizer or main dish.
• Customizable: Make it spicier, sweeter, or more tangy to suit your taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as finger food or over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) frozen meatballs (store-bought or homemade, fully cooked)
• 1 cup (240 ml) cranberry sauce (jellied or whole-berry)
• ½ cup (120 ml) chili sauce (or ketchup for a milder option)
• 2 tbsp (30 g) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Sauce

• In a large saucepan or the bowl of a slow cooker, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using).
• Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.

2. Heating the Sauce

• Stovetop Method: Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to bubble.
• Slow Cooker Method: Set the slow cooker to low and allow the sauce to warm through, stirring occasionally.

3. Adding the Meatballs

• Add the frozen, fully cooked meatballs to the sauce.
• Stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.

4. Cooking

• Stovetop Method: Simmer the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Serving

• Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
• Present on toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice for a satisfying main course.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks for an easy finger food option.
• Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Turn this into a hearty meal with a simple side.
• With Bread or Rolls: Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze cooked meatballs in their sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, adding a splash of water if needed.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Sweeter Sauce: Increase the brown sugar by 1-2 tablespoons for a sweeter profile.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based meatballs and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free: Select gluten-free meatballs and Worcestershire sauce.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes! Prepare them up to a day ahead and reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely! Ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the sauce.

Can I substitute cranberry sauce?

If cranberry sauce isn’t available, you can use a mix of apricot preserves and a splash of lemon juice for a similar tangy-sweet flavor.

These Cranberry Meatballs are an effortless yet impressive dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. The combination of savory and tangy flavors is sure to delight your guests. Give them a try and let these delicious bites become a staple in your entertaining repertoire!

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