Cranberry Meatballs

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A Festive Twist on a Classic Favorite

Looking for the perfect dish to impress your guests or elevate your weeknight dinner? These cranberry meatballs are the ideal blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making them a standout addition to any menu. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a comforting main dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels who want a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, these cranberry meatballs come together quickly. They’re versatile, too—serve them over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal, or pass them around with toothpicks as a party appetizer. The unique cranberry sauce gives this dish a festive flair, making it especially great for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make these delectable cranberry meatballs:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground pork or sausage
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (or chili sauce for a spicier kick)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather these kitchen tools:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Spoon or scoop for forming meatballs
  • Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground pork or sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, parsley, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  3. Form the meatballs: Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are lightly browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Combine the ingredients: In a large skillet or saucepan, mix cranberry sauce, BBQ or chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Heat the sauce: Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble.

Step 3: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

  1. Simmer: Add the baked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to coat them evenly.
  2. Cook together: Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  2. Serve: Enjoy as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

Tips and Variations

  • Make it Spicy: Use chili sauce instead of BBQ sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Swap Proteins: Try ground turkey, chicken, or beef for a different flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the meatballs and sauce separately up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm the meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Food and Drink Pairings

These cranberry meatballs pair beautifully with:

  • Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed vegetables.
  • Drinks: Serve with a glass of medium-bodied red wine, sparkling cider, or a festive cranberry cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce? Yes! Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and a splash of water until softened, then blend into a sauce before adding to the recipe.

How do I know if my meatballs are cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is at least 160°F (71°C).

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Cook the meatballs in the oven as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the sauce. Keep on low heat for 2-3 hours before serving.

Conclusion

These cranberry meatballs are a delightful mix of festive flavors and everyday comfort. They’re simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for entertaining. Give this recipe a try and watch your family and friends rave about it!

Love this recipe? Share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Let us know in the comments how your cranberry meatballs turned out—we’d love to hear from you!

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