Quick Cranberry Meatballs

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Tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze – this Quick Cranberry Meatballs recipe is the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer to bring to a holiday party or a weeknight dinner idea that’s a bit outside the norm, this dish delivers with rich flavor and effortless prep.

These cranberry meatballs are the perfect fusion of savory and sweet. The sauce is made from whole cranberry sauce and a touch of chili sauce for balance, creating a glossy coating that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for busy nights or impressing guests without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

This dish is a hit for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make using just a few pantry staples. The combination of cranberry and chili sauce gives these meatballs a festive feel that’s great for the holidays, but they’re simple enough to enjoy year-round. They also make fantastic leftovers and can be served as an appetizer or main dish.

Whether you’re prepping for a party, planning your weekly dinner ideas, or just need something fun to make with ground beef or turkey, these meatballs check all the boxes: quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for Cranberry Meatballs?

Ground beef and ground turkey both work great in this recipe, depending on your preference. Beef gives a heartier, more traditional meatball flavor, while turkey is a leaner option with a slightly lighter taste. You can also use pre-cooked frozen meatballs to make this dish even faster – just heat and toss in the sauce!

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Ingredients for the Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the bold, balanced flavor of this recipe:

• Ground beef or turkey – This is the base of the meatballs. Choose lean ground meat to keep them tender but not greasy.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a great texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs together during cooking.
• Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance the flavor of the meat.
• Cranberry sauce (whole berry) – The star of the sauce! Adds sweetness and tartness.
• Chili sauce – Balances the sweet cranberry with a mild kick of heat.
• Brown sugar – Adds a deep caramel note to the sauce.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and balances the sweetness.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For a touch of color and freshness at the end.

How To Make the Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Step 1: Mix and Form Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Roll into 1-inch balls.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet or oven to medium-high. Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total. Alternatively, bake them in a 400°F oven for 18-20 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Sauce

In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until bubbly and well combined.

Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently stir to coat. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot as an appetizer or over rice for a main dish.

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How to Serve and Store Quick Cranberry Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them hot from the stovetop as a party appetizer with toothpicks, or pile them over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles for a cozy dinner.

This recipe makes about 20-24 meatballs, enough to feed 4-6 people depending on serving size.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the sweet-tart glaze of the meatballs.

Steamed Green Beans

The freshness of green beans adds color and crunch to the plate.

White or Brown Rice

A simple bowl of rice helps soak up all that delicious cranberry sauce.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The roasted, nutty flavor of sprouts is a great contrast to the sweetness of the meatballs.

Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm rolls make it easy to scoop up extra sauce and complete the meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cranberry meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and cook the meatballs a day or two ahead. Store them in the fridge and warm them up in the cranberry sauce before serving.

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Absolutely. Using frozen pre-cooked meatballs is a great time-saver. Just heat them according to package directions and then toss them in the sauce.

What’s the best cranberry sauce to use?
Whole berry cranberry sauce works best for this recipe as it gives texture and a more natural flavor. Avoid jellied cranberry sauce, which lacks the necessary tang and texture.

Can I make these meatballs in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can brown the meatballs first (optional for extra flavor), then place them in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring your chili sauce and cranberry sauce are certified gluten-free. For more gluten-free ideas, check out our collection of gluten-free recipes.

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