Introduction
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful appetizer or main dish that will leave your guests impressed, these Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect choice. The combination of tender, homemade meatballs with a tangy and sweet cranberry glaze creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please everyone at the table. I recently made these meatballs for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The cranberry glaze adds a festive touch, making them ideal for holiday meals or casual get-togethers. The best part is that they are easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe when you need something delicious in a pinch.
Ingredients
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
1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
1/2 cup chili sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it is well combined. The mixture should hold together easily when shaped into meatballs.
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them out so they can cook evenly.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one open to ensure there is no pink remaining.
While the meatballs are baking, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a medium saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it is smooth and heated through. The sauce should be thick and glossy.
Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the saucepan with the cranberry glaze. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Let the meatballs simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes so that the flavors can meld and the meatballs absorb the sweet and tangy glaze.
Once the meatballs are fully coated and simmered, serve them warm. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 460 mg
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Protein: 15 g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve
As an Appetizer
Serve the cranberry meatballs as a festive appetizer at your next party. Skewer them with toothpicks or serve them in a small dish with a side of the cranberry glaze for dipping.
As a Main Dish
Serve the meatballs alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The sweet and savory flavor pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple vegetable side dish.
With Bread
Serve over warm, crusty bread or soft rolls for a hearty meal. You can even serve them in a sandwich for a fun twist on the classic meatball sub.
Additional Tips
- Customize the Glaze
If you like your meatballs with more heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze. The chili sauce already brings some heat, but a little extra kick can elevate the flavor. - Use Lean Ground Beef
For a leaner option, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. The glaze will still add plenty of flavor, and you’ll have a healthier dish. - Prep Ahead
You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes the recipe great for meal prepping or for when you’re hosting and want to save time. - Make Extra Glaze
If you love the cranberry glaze, double the sauce ingredients so you can drizzle more on top or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side. - Frozen Meatballs
If you’re in a rush, you can use frozen meatballs and cook them according to the package instructions, then coat them in the cranberry glaze for a shortcut version of this recipe.
Recipe Variations
Sweet and Spicy Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili powder to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor. The combination of sweet and spicy is always a crowd-pleaser.
Vegetarian Cranberry Meatballs: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or make your own vegetarian meatballs using a mixture of lentils, quinoa, and breadcrumbs.
Cranberry BBQ Meatballs: Swap the chili sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce to create a different variation with a smoky flavor. You can still use the cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness.
Cranberry Pecan Meatballs: Add chopped pecans to the meatball mixture for a nutty crunch that complements the cranberry glaze beautifully.
Cranberry and Apple Meatballs: Add finely chopped apples to the meatball mixture for a fruity twist. The apples will add moisture and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
With Mashed Potatoes: The sweet and savory cranberry glaze pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes. Serve the meatballs over the potatoes for a comforting meal.
On a Salad: Toss the cranberry meatballs onto a bed of mixed greens, topped with a balsamic glaze for a healthy yet satisfying salad.
In a Wrap or Sandwich: Place the meatballs and some extra glaze in a wrap or sandwich for a delicious handheld meal.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
Freezing and Storage
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. After baking, allow the meatballs to cool, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a saucepan with the glaze and heat until warm.
Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
FAQ Section
- Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking. You can also make them ahead and freeze them for later use. - Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey will work just fine and result in a lighter, leaner dish. - How do I know when the meatballs are done?
Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. You can check by cutting one in half to make sure it’s no longer pink inside. - Can I use fresh cranberries instead of jellied cranberry sauce?
Jellied cranberry sauce is ideal for this recipe because it provides a smooth, sweet base. If you want to use fresh cranberries, you would need to cook them down with sugar and water to create a sauce-like consistency. - How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to the cranberry glaze for more heat. - How do I serve these meatballs at a party?
Serve them in a chafing dish or slow cooker to keep them warm, and provide toothpicks or skewers for easy serving. - Can I make these meatballs with a different glaze?
Yes, you can use any glaze you like, such as BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a honey mustard mixture. - Can I make these meatballs vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with plant-based options such as lentils, tofu, or meat substitutes. - What can I pair these meatballs with?
Serve with mashed potatoes, a salad, roasted vegetables, or even in a sandwich. - How long will the leftover meatballs last?
Leftover meatballs will last in the fridge for 3-4 days, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, making them a standout dish at any gathering. With their rich flavor and ease of preparation, they are sure to become a staple at your holiday feasts, potlucks, and family dinners. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs will quickly become a favorite among your guests, and they’re easy enough for you to make at home. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!