Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Meatballs: A Festive Favorite
Sweet and tangy cranberry meatballs combine savory beef, tart cranberry sauce, and smoky BBQ sauce, making them the perfect holiday appetizer or main dish.
Looking for the perfect appetizer for your holiday gatherings? Sweet and tangy cranberry meatballs are a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that combines savory beef, tart cranberry sauce, and the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, these meatballs are easy to make and offer a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.
Why should you try this recipe? These cranberry meatballs strike a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, making them a hit with both kids and adults. They're versatile, easy to prepare ahead of time, and perfect for serving at potlucks, parties, or family dinners. Pair them with toothpicks for a simple appetizer or serve them over rice or noodles for a comforting meal.
The tradition of meatballs dates back centuries, with variations found in nearly every cuisine. The cranberry twist is a distinctly American addition, celebrating the fruit's ties to Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Combining cranberry sauce with BBQ sauce and brown sugar gives these meatballs a festive and flavorful upgrade, making them a seasonal classic.
Tips and Tricks
Use lean ground beef to keep the meatballs moist but not overly greasy.
For evenly sized meatballs, use a cookie scoop when shaping them.
Want a smoky kick? Swap out regular BBQ sauce for a hickory-smoked variety.
Don't skip turning the meatballs during baking—they'll brown more evenly.
For extra zest, garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the meatballs a day in advance, then simmer them in the sauce before serving.Can I freeze cranberry meatballs?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked meatballs without sauce, then thaw and reheat them in the cranberry-BBQ mixture.Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.What can I serve with these meatballs?
Cranberry meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even dinner rolls.
These sweet and tangy cranberry meatballs are a festive treat that will add a pop of flavor to any holiday table. Easy to prepare and packed with bold, comforting flavors, they’re a versatile dish that can shine as an appetizer or a main course. Whether you're hosting a party or simply looking for a family-friendly recipe, cranberry meatballs are sure to be a crowd favorite. Serve them warm and watch your guests come back for seconds (and thirds)!
Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Meatballs: A Festive Favorite
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 cup bread crumbs
⅓ cup ketchup
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons soy sauce
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
1 (16-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
1 (18-ounce) bottle BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar, or to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, eggs, soy sauce, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs and arrange them on a nonstick or lightly greased baking sheet.
Step 2: Bake the Meatballs
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
5. In a large saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
6. Add the baked meatballs to the saucepan, gently stirring to coat them in the sauce. Simmer on low heat for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
7. Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.