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Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

Cranberry Meatballs

A quick and impressive appetizer featuring savory meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for parties and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 0.25 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Sauce
  • 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce 14-ounce
  • 0.5 cup chili sauce
  • 0.25 cup grape jelly
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
  4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, grape jelly, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the jelly is melted.
  7. Once the meatballs are cooked, drain any excess grease and add them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.
  8. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Don't overmix the meat to avoid tough meatballs. For richer flavor, use combination of ground beef and pork. Taste and adjust cranberry sauce to preference - add red pepper flakes for spice. Baking meatballs helps retain shape and reduces grease. If sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time. Don't overcook meatballs in sauce to prevent dryness. Can be served over rice or mashed potatoes as main course.