Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic! These little meatballs are cooked in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that adds tons of flavor. Perfect for party snacks!
Honestly, who knew that meatballs could be this tasty? I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can enjoy them easily. They’re always the first to disappear at gatherings!
Making these is super simple, just mix the meat and sauce, cook, and enjoy. Plus, they’re great for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday or just a casual get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef, but you can mix in ground pork for added flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too! Just keep in mind it might be a bit leaner.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great, but if you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. I find that panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch if you’re after a different texture!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely depth of flavor, but you can replace it with grated Pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. I love the subtle salty kick that Parmesan brings!
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is my favorite for better texture, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use canned cranberry sauce. Or, make your own by cooking fresh cranberries with sugar and a bit of water!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavorful?
Getting juicy meatballs is all about balance! To keep them tender, don’t overmix your meat mixture. Just combine everything until it’s mixed, then shape them gently.
- Start by heating the oil before adding the meatballs to get that nice brown crust.
- Try not to overcrowd the skillet; cook them in batches for even cooking.
- Cooking them on medium heat allows the inside to cook through without burning the outside.
- Once done, toss them in the warm cranberry sauce gently to avoid breaking them apart!
These little tips will help you achieve perfect, moist meatballs every time! Enjoy!
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably whole berry style)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should expect to spend around 35 minutes making these delicious meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until it’s just combined—don’t overmix to keep the meatballs tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a tray or plate. You should get about 18-20 meatballs. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove the meatballs from the skillet and drain any excess oil.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is warmed through. This will create a sweet and tangy sauce perfect for our meatballs!
5. Combine the Meatballs with Sauce:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and gently toss them in the cranberry-barbecue sauce until they’re well coated and heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Take your time to ensure every meatball is coated nicely!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. If you like, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley for a nice touch! Serve warm, ideal for serving with toothpicks, or alongside toasted bread or crackers for dipping.
Enjoy this delicious blend of sweet, tangy cranberry sauce with savory meatballs—perfect for appetizers or festive occasions!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge. Cook them directly in the cranberry sauce for added flavor, allowing a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated through!
What If I Don’t Have Cranberry Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute it with a mixture of apple sauce and a splash of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Alternatively, use raspberry jam or any berry-based sauce you have on hand!
How Long Do Leftover Meatballs Last?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra sauce to keep them moist!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and cook them a day in advance. Just store them in the sauce in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove before serving!