A platter of cranberry meatballs glazed in a shiny cranberry sauce, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.

Cranberry Meatballs: Sweet, Tangy, and Irresistible

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This easy recipe combines the comfort of homemade meatballs with the festive flair of a tangy cranberry glaze. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a quick and flavorful dinner idea, these meatballs deliver on taste and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: A great appetizer for parties or gatherings.
  • Sweet and Savory: The cranberry glaze strikes the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.
  • Customizable: Easily swap the ground beef or add spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cranberry Glaze:

  • 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  3. In a large bowl, combine:
    • Ground beef
    • Breadcrumbs
    • Egg
    • Chopped onion
    • Garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper
  4. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined.

2. Shape and Bake

  1. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.

3. Make the Cranberry Glaze

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:
    • Jellied cranberry sauce
    • Chili sauce
    • Brown sugar
    • Worcestershire sauce
  2. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and heated through.

4. Coat and Simmer

  1. Transfer the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the glaze.
  2. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly in the cranberry sauce.
  3. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Garnish

  • Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
  • Pair with toothpicks for appetizers or serve over rice or noodles for a main dish.

Serving Suggestions

  • As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks on a platter for easy snacking.
  • Over Rice: Pair the meatballs with steamed white or brown rice for a quick meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: The cranberry glaze complements creamy mashed potatoes beautifully.
  • In a Sandwich: Stuff the meatballs in a hoagie roll with extra glaze for a tangy meatball sub.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in dense meatballs. Mix just until combined.
  • Choose the Right Chili Sauce: Opt for a mild chili sauce to balance the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
  • Make Ahead: Cook the meatballs and glaze ahead of time, then reheat together before serving.
  • Double the Recipe: This dish is always a crowd favorite, so consider doubling the batch for larger gatherings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 15g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs instead?
Yes! Simply prepare the cranberry glaze and simmer frozen pre-cooked meatballs in it until heated through.

What’s a good substitute for chili sauce?
Ketchup with a splash of hot sauce or sriracha works as a substitute for chili sauce.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the meatballs and prepare the glaze ahead. Store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, then combine and reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cranberry meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze cranberry meatballs?
Yes! Freeze cooked meatballs and glaze separately for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner, this versatile dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer or paired with hearty sides for a full meal.

Bring this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe to your next gathering and watch them disappear—just be ready to share the recipe!

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