Looking For The Perfect Party Appetizer? Try These Irresistible Cranberry Meatballs!

These cranberry meatballs are sweet, tangy, and savory, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated onion
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

Step 3: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

1. Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large skillet or pot.
2. Pour the cranberry sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly.
3. Simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 as an appetizer or 3-4 as a main course.

Helpful Notes

• Make Ahead: The meatballs can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat them in the cranberry sauce before serving.
• Switch It Up: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Serving Idea: Pair these cranberry meatballs with toothpicks for easy serving, or serve them over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

These cranberry meatballs are the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors, making them ideal for holidays or any occasion. Whip up a batch, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!

What are you waiting for? Try this recipe today and let us know how they turn out!