Cranberry Meatballs: Simple Holiday Appetizer

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These Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate holiday appetizer — sweet, tangy, savory, and totally irresistible. Each bite bursts with juicy flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of tart cranberry sauce and savory meatballs. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or looking for an easy make-ahead dish to serve at your next family gathering, these meatballs are a must-try.

The vibrant glaze, made from cranberry sauce and a touch of spice, brings an unexpected twist that everyone will rave about. They’re easy to prep in advance and hold up beautifully in a slow cooker, making them ideal for busy holiday entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

• Perfect for the holidays: Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with traditional holiday dishes.
• Crowd-pleaser: These meatballs disappear fast! They’re a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, or even as a main dish with mashed potatoes or rice.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep them in advance and keep them warm in a crockpot.

What Kind of Cranberry Sauce Should I Use?

You can use either jellied or whole-berry cranberry sauce, but whole-berry adds texture and a slightly less sweet profile. Store-bought works perfectly fine here, though homemade cranberry sauce takes the flavor up a notch. If you’re going for a homemade version, just make sure it’s thick and not overly runny so it clings nicely to the meatballs.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Meatballs

Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture for these juicy, festive meatballs.

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty base and rich flavor. Choose 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for best results.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs and create a tender texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Onion (finely chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and depth.
• Garlic (minced): Delivers a flavorful kick and enhances the savory notes.
• Salt and pepper: Seasoning is essential for balance.
• Cranberry sauce: The star of the dish, giving the meatballs their signature tangy-sweet glaze.
• Chili sauce: Adds a subtle spice that contrasts beautifully with the cranberry.
• Brown sugar: Enhances sweetness and gives the sauce a glossy finish.
• Lemon juice: Cuts through the sweetness and brightens the sauce.

How To Make the Cranberry Meatballs

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined — avoid overmixing. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through, as they’ll finish in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Sauce

In a saucepan, mix together cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium until the sauce is smooth and bubbly.

Step 4: Simmer Together

Transfer the browned meatballs into a slow cooker or large saucepan. Pour the warm cranberry sauce over the meatballs. Simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours until the meatballs are cooked through and infused with flavor.

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Serving and Storing Cranberry Meatballs

This recipe yields about 24 bite-sized meatballs, making it perfect for feeding 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. They can be served warm straight from the slow cooker, or plated with a garnish of chopped parsley for presentation.

To store leftovers, allow meatballs to cool completely. Then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them with the sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until warmed through.

What to Serve With Cranberry Meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from cozy carbs to refreshing salads. Here are some serving ideas:

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes create a hearty base that soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.

Rice Pilaf

Fluffy and light, rice pilaf complements the rich meatballs without overpowering them.

Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Ideal for soaking up extra sauce and making it feel like a complete meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The earthy bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cranberry glaze.

Green Bean Almondine

A crisp, fresh vegetable side to balance the richness.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Lean into the holiday vibe with another sweet-savory dish that complements the cranberry flavor.

Cheese Platter

Serve the meatballs alongside a holiday cheese board for a fun party spread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, store-bought frozen meatballs work great in a pinch. Just skip the browning step and cook them directly in the sauce until heated through and tender.

How long can I keep these warm in a slow cooker?
Once cooked, you can keep them on the “warm” setting in your slow cooker for up to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough pot or slow cooker and adjust the sauce proportions accordingly.

Is there a way to make these meatballs spicier?
Yes! Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce to give it a kick.

What type of ground meat can I use besides beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. Just be mindful of the cooking time as lean meats can dry out faster.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or holiday board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with beef or try a leaner meat? Did you go spicy or sweet?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Looking for more delicious holiday appetizers? Check out my daily recipes on Pinterest: Life With Livia Pinterest

Conclusion

Cranberry Meatballs are the kind of dish that makes holiday entertaining stress-free and delicious. Their festive flavor and ease of preparation make them a seasonal staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re throwing a party or need a cozy dish for a quiet night in, these meatballs check every box for flavor, simplicity, and holiday cheer.

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