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Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry meatballs are a festive dish combining juicy beef meatballs with a tangy cranberry glaze. The meatballs are baked until golden and then coated in a simmered sauce that balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors, resulting in a tender, saucy dish with a glossy finish. Perfect as an appetizer or main course for holiday or autumn tables.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ground meat beef, pork, or turkey: Forms the base of the meatballs
  • Breadcrumbs: Help keep meatballs tender
  • Egg: Binds everything together
  • Onion finely chopped or grated: Adds moisture and flavor
  • Garlic: Adds savory depth
  • Salt: Enhances all flavors
  • Black pepper: Adds mild warmth
  • Cranberry sauce: Brings tangy sweetness
  • Chili sauce or ketchup: Adds body and balance
  • Brown sugar optional: Adjusts sweetness if needed
  • Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl: For forming meatballs
  • Baking sheet or skillet: For browning
  • Slow cooker or saucepan: For simmering
  • Spoon or scoop: For even portions
  • Tongs: For easy serving

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven or skillet: Prepare for browning meatballs
  2. Mix meatball ingredients: Combine meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper
  3. Form meatballs: Roll into evenly sized balls
  4. Brown: Bake or pan-sear until lightly browned
  5. Make sauce: Stir cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire together
  6. Combine: Add meatballs and sauce to slow cooker or pot
  7. Simmer: Cook until meatballs are fully cooked and coated

Notes

For an extra festive touch, serve these meatballs with toothpicks as appetizers or over rice for a hearty main course.