I find meatballs to be a fantastic choice for any gathering or even a simple weeknight meal. They’re easy to make, everyone enjoys them, and they can be dressed up in so many ways. Today, I’m excited to share two of my favorite cranberry meatball recipes.
Whether you like a little kick or a traditional sweet sauce, these easy meatball ideas are sure to be a hit. You’ll love how quickly these come together, leaving you more time to enjoy your food and company.
Jump to Recipe:
Cranberry Chipotle Cocktail Meatballs for Parties
These cranberry chipotle meatballs bring a nice balance of sweet and smoky heat to your table. They are perfect for appetizers at a party or even as a unique main dish.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Chipotle Meatballs
- Frozen Meatballs: Using pre-cooked frozen meatballs makes this recipe incredibly fast. No need to thaw them first!
- Chipotle in Adobo: This is key for the smoky spice. You can add more or less of the sauce (and the pepper itself, finely minced) to control the heat level.
- Grape Jelly: It might sound different, but grape jelly is what gives these meatballs their classic sticky, sweet glaze. It works so well with cranberry.
What You Need
- 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from canned chipotles (add a finely minced chipotle pepper for more heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 pounds frozen pre-cooked meatballs
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, grape jelly, adobo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and onion powder. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring often, until the jelly and cranberry sauce have fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Add Meatballs & Simmer
Gently add the frozen meatballs to the sauce. Make sure they are coated well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the meatballs simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Serve Warm
Serve your cranberry chipotle meatballs hot. They are wonderful on their own with toothpicks, or you can serve them over rice for a full meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.
📝 Final Note
These meatballs can also be made in a slow cooker. Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring once or twice.
Classic Cranberry Sauce Meatballs for a Quick Meal
If you love classic comfort food, these simple cranberry sauce meatballs are perfect for you. They come together quickly for a tasty and satisfying meal, great for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Cranberry Meatballs
- Jellied or Whole Berry: You can use either type of cranberry sauce based on your preference. Jellied will give a smoother sauce, while whole berry adds texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a little extra depth and tang to the sauce, making it more complex without much effort. Don’t skip it!
- Simmer Time: Letting the meatballs simmer for enough time ensures they are fully heated and soak up all the delicious sauce flavors.
What You Need
- 1 (14-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 2 pounds frozen pre-cooked beef meatballs
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
In a large saucepan or pot, combine the cranberry sauce, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard. Stir these ingredients together over medium heat until the cranberry sauce melts and the mixture becomes smooth and warm.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Add the frozen meatballs to the warm sauce. Stir gently to make sure all meatballs are coated. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let them simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the meatballs to heat through and absorb the delicious sauce.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are hot and the sauce has thickened slightly, they are ready to serve. These are excellent with mashed potatoes or rice, or as a hearty appetizer.
📝 Final Note
For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of beef broth or a tablespoon of apple jelly along with the cranberry sauce.
