Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, offering a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors that are sure to impress your guests. These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also serve as a fantastic appetizer that captures the essence of festive cooking. With the sweet, tangy twist of cranberry sauce paired with savory meat, they embody the perfect holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these meatballs are bound to be a crowd favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Meatballs

These Cranberry Meatballs are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile and convenient. Here are a few reasons why they deserve a spot at your table:

They combine sweet and savory flavors, making them appealing for all palates.
Perfect for holiday parties, these meatballs can be served as finger foods.
They are easy to prepare, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
They can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the party.
Great for meal prep, they store well for quick meals throughout the week.
They can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs, such as Turkey Cranberry Meatballs for a leaner option.
With variations like Cranberry Sauce Meatballs and Cranberry Meatballs with BBQ Sauce, you’ll never get bored!

Ingredients for Cranberry Meatballs

Gather these items:

2 large eggs
1/3 cup tomato ketchup
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ lbs lean ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
For the Sauce:
3 tbsp packed brown sugar
2 cups cranberry sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 cup tomato ketchup

How to Make Cranberry Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Wet your hands and form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, making about 32 meatballs.
Step 4: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a skillet, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and ketchup. Stir over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
Step 6: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep your meatballs tender.
For a twist, try adding crushed pineapple for Cranberry Meatballs with Pineapple.
These are also great in a slow cooker for easy serving at parties.
Ensure your meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Meatballs

These meatballs can be served in various ways:

On toothpicks as a fun appetizer.
Over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
With a side of mashed potatoes or veggies for a complete dinner.
As part of a buffet spread during Cranberry Meatballs for Holiday Parties.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Meatballs

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. These meatballs can be kept for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for quick meals. This makes them a perfect option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Meatballs?

The secret to perfect Cranberry Meatballs lies in the balance of flavors. The combination of savory pork with the sweet cranberry sauce creates a delightful taste experience. Make sure to season well and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce to absorb the flavors.

Can I make Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately and reheat before serving. This is a great way to save time during busy holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Meatballs?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your meat mixture is not overworked, which can lead to tough meatballs. Also, check for doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through without drying out.

Variations of Cranberry Meatballs You Can Try

There are many fun variations to explore:

Turkey Cranberry Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for a healthier option.
Cranberry Glazed Meatballs: Use a different glaze for a unique twist.
Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs: Perfect for entertaining, just set and forget!
Sweet and Sour Cranberry Meatballs: Add some vinegar for a tangy kick.

For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Butter or Cranberry Orange Pancakes!

Delicious Cranberry Meatballs for Your Holiday Gatherings

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 32 meatballs 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect holiday appetizer that combines the savory flavor of meatballs with the sweet, tangy twist of cranberry sauce.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Wet your hands and form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, making about 32 meatballs.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a skillet, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and ketchup. Stir over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.