Cranberry Meatballs: Sweet & Savory Holiday Bliss

These Cranberry Meatballs are a quick and delicious holiday appetizer that blend sweet and savory flavors, impressing your guests in under 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 meatballs

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sauce

1 can Jellied Cranberry Sauce use whole cranberry sauce for a chunkier texture
1 cup Chili Sauce can be swapped with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor
1/4 cup Brown Sugar optional to decrease for lower sugar content
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger taste
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste; white pepper can be used for a more subdued spice

For the Meatballs

24 oz Frozen Pre-Cooked Meatballs choose beef or turkey; homemade meatballs can also work if pre-cooked beforehand

Equipment

Skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until smooth and bubbly.
Add in the frozen pre-cooked meatballs and stir gently to coat each meatball evenly in the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
Transfer the meatballs to a serving bowl or slow cooker. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 14gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Serve with a splash of orange juice or fresh herbs for added flavor. Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance.

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