Okay, let’s dive into a family favorite that always brings smiles to our dinner table!
I’m Beatriz, and like you, I’m all about finding those sanity-saving comfort foods that make life a little easier. This recipe for Cranberry Meatballs has become a staple in our home.
The first time I made Cranberry Meatballs, I was looking for a simple appetizer to bring to a holiday party. I wanted something that tasted good, was easy to transport, and of course, that everyone would love. Let’s just say, they disappeared quickly!
My kids devoured them, and my husband raved about the tangy-sweet flavor combination. That’s when I knew these Cranberry Meatballs were a comfort food win!
Ever since then, I’ve been making Cranberry Meatballs for everything from holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners. They’re so versatile, and the kids get excited every time.
It’s been a joy to see how much comfort and satisfaction this simple dish brings. It makes me feel good knowing I can create something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you’re like me and looking for simple comfort food solutions, this recipe for Cranberry Meatballs is definitely for you. Let’s get cooking!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these incredibly comforting Cranberry Meatballs. The best part? You can easily find these ingredients at your regular grocery store! This recipe is designed to be budget-friendly and fuss-free.
- Ground Meat: 1 pound (beef, pork, turkey, or a combination). I often use ground turkey for a leaner option, but any ground meat works great.
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup. Use plain breadcrumbs for this Cranberry Meatballs recipe.
- Egg: 1 large. This helps bind the meatballs together, giving them a perfect texture.
- Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped. It adds a lovely flavor to the meatballs, making them extra comforting.
- Milk: 1/4 cup. Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. A little salt and pepper goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.
- Cranberry Sauce: 1 (14-ounce) can. This is the star of our cranberry meatballs!
- Chili Sauce: 1/2 cup. It adds a hint of spice and tanginess.
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup. Sweetens the sauce and creates a lovely glaze.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. Adds umami and depth to the cranberry glaze meatballs.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon. Gives a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
Trust me, this Cranberry Meatballs ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your family’s taste. My family gets extra comfort when I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat!
For a comfort-focused ingredient swap, if you don’t have chili sauce, ketchup works just as well. This Cranberry Meatballs proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive or complicated. Now, let’s turn these simple ingredients into a family favorite!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to transform these ingredients into something truly special? I promise, making these Cranberry Meatballs is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting and delicious dish in no time.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet. I like to line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It’s a comfort hack that saves time later!
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your meatballs might become tough. This is key to getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs. Aim for about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. In my busy kitchen, this part usually takes about 15 minutes. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned. Your Cranberry Meatballs should smell amazing by now!
- Make the Cranberry Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Stir gently to coat each meatball evenly. You can also add the meatballs to a slow cooker along with the sauce for a super easy dinner.
- Simmer Together: Let the Cranberry Meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Don’t worry if your Cranberry Meatballs looks a little saucy – that’s exactly what you want!
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delicious Cranberry Meatballs warm as an appetizer or a main course. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Cranberry Meatballs – I would often overcook the meatballs and they’d be dry. Now, I make sure to mix the ingredients gently and bake them just until they’re cooked through. It makes all the difference!
While your Cranberry Meatballs is cooking, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family! It’s the little things that make a big difference.
How We Love to Eat This!
Now that you’ve created this comforting dish, let’s talk about how to serve it! My family has a few favorite ways to enjoy these amazing Cranberry Meatballs.
The kids devour this comforting Cranberry Meatballs when I serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. The sweetness of the sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes, and the broccoli adds a healthy touch. It’s a complete and balanced meal that everyone loves.
Another great option is to serve them over rice or quinoa. This is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of the Cranberry Meatballs. I often add a side of green beans or a simple salad to round out the meal.
These Cranberry Meatballs also make a fantastic appetizer for parties and gatherings. Simply serve them in a chafing dish or slow cooker to keep them warm. I always get compliments on how delicious and unique they are!
This Cranberry Meatballs is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! I often make a big batch on the weekend and reheat them during the week. It saves so much time and effort.
For presentation, I like to garnish the Cranberry Meatballs with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It adds a pop of color and makes them look even more appealing.
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! These Cranberry Meatballs are just as delicious the next day. I often pack them in my kids’ lunchboxes or use them to make a quick and easy meatball sub.
For a seasonal variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce during the holiday season. It adds a warm and festive touch that my family loves.
My friend Sarah raved about my Cranberry Meatballs when she had it at a party last year. She asked me for the recipe and has been making them ever since! It’s so rewarding to share comfort food with others.
This comforting Cranberry Meatballs reminds me of another family favorite, these Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs. If your kids love this hearty recipe, they’ll go crazy for these Spicy Cranberry BBQ Meatballs! For more simple comfort food ideas for busy families, check out these Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have a few questions about making these Cranberry Meatballs, so I’ve compiled some of the most common ones I get from fellow moms. Let’s dive in!
Is this Cranberry Meatballs really filling enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! The combination of protein from the meat, carbs from the breadcrumbs, and the hearty cranberry sauce makes it a satisfying and filling meal. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to make it even more substantial.
What if my picky eater won’t try this Cranberry Meatballs?
I get it! Picky eaters can be tough. Try serving it with a familiar side dish that your child loves, like mac and cheese or fries. Sometimes, just having something familiar on the plate can encourage them to try something new. You can also try cutting the meatballs into smaller pieces or serving the sauce on the side so they can control how much they want.
Can I meal prep this Cranberry Meatballs for busy weeks ahead?
Yes! This Cranberry Meatballs is perfect for meal prepping. You can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce and meatballs together until warmed through. It’s a sanity-saver!
Can I freeze these Cranberry Meatballs?
Definitely! These Cranberry Meatballs freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
What kind of ground meat works best for Cranberry Meatballs?
I’ve made this recipe with ground beef, ground pork, ground turkey, and even a combination of ground beef and pork. My family enjoys it with ground turkey because it’s a bit lighter, but feel free to use whatever you prefer.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can! If you’re using fresh cranberries, you’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and water until they form a sauce. I personally find canned cranberry sauce more convenient for this recipe, but fresh cranberries will work just as well.
How can I make this Cranberry Meatballs spicier?
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce. You can also use a spicy chili sauce or a dash of hot sauce. My husband loves it when I make it with a bit of a kick!
These are just a few of the questions I get asked most often. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
For inspiration, check out this Turkey Meatball Appetizer with Cranberry Glaze for more great recipes! For further variety, look into these delicious Cranberry-Glazed Meatballs. To explore another take on this dish, look into these Cranberry Glazed Meatballs.
Final Thoughts
Making these Cranberry Meatballs is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a comforting and memorable meal for your family. It’s about those cozy moments around the table, sharing laughter and delicious food. This recipe supports my family’s comfort food goals by being simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Here are my Cranberry Meatballs Comfort Hacks:
- Make a double batch: Freeze half for a future quick meal.
- Use pre-made meatballs: For an even faster dinner solution on extra-busy nights.
- Serve over pasta: For a fun twist, try serving these sweet and sour meatballs over pasta.
We’ve tried several family-tested Cranberry Meatballs variations, including adding a dash of cinnamon for the holidays, using different types of ground meat, and even experimenting with different spices in the sauce. My son, loves the classic version, while my daughter prefers it with a little extra spice. My husband always likes a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Remember, cooking is a journey, not a destination. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
I truly hope this recipe becomes a new family favorite. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
With warm encouragement, go and create some satisfying Cranberry Meatballs for your family. You got this!
Cranberry Meatballs
These cranberry meatballs are the perfect sweet and savory appetizer for any holiday gathering. Tender meatballs are simmered in a tangy cranberry sauce, creating a flavorful and festive dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14 ounce) can cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chili sauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a large skillet, brown meatballs over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and water.
- Pour cranberry sauce mixture over meatballs in the skillet.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.