Oh, let me tell you about easy cranberry meatballs! These little gems are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a hit at any gathering, from holiday parties to casual weeknight dinners. I remember the first time I made them for a family get-together. The kitchen was filled with that delicious aroma, and as soon as I pulled them out of the oven, my family couldn’t get enough! They disappeared faster than I could keep them warm. Trust me, you’ll want to have this recipe in your back pocket!
What I love most about these meatballs is how simple they are to whip up. You don’t need to be a culinary whiz to impress your guests with this dish. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion – game nights, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. The combination of cranberry and chili sauces creates a unique flavor that everyone loves. Get ready to make some unforgettable memories with these easy cranberry meatballs!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef – This is the star of the show! You can use lean or regular, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatballs together and give them a lovely texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor!
- 1/2 cup chopped onion – Fresh onion adds a nice sweetness and depth to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup milk – Just a little bit of milk keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
- 1 large egg – This acts as a binder to hold everything together, making your meatballs nice and firm.
- 1 can (14 ounces) cranberry sauce – The sweet and tangy flavor brings everything together! You can use jellied or whole berry, whichever you prefer.
- 1/4 cup chili sauce – This adds a delightful kick and balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt – A must for seasoning! Don’t skip this step; it really enhances the flavor of the meatballs.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Just the right amount of spice to wake up your taste buds!
How to Prepare Easy Cranberry Meatballs
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your meatballs cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown crust. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s a bit messy, but you can really feel the ingredients coming together. Just be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can make your meatballs tough, and we definitely want tender, juicy bites.
Shape the Meatballs
Now, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for even cooking and makes them easy to eat. To keep them uniform, I like to use a small cookie scoop or just keep a little bowl of water nearby to moisten my hands. This way, the mixture won’t stick to your fingers too much!
Arrange on Baking Sheet
Next, arrange your meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is key! The parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Make sure to give them a little space so they can bake evenly without crowding each other.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce and chili sauce. This combination is what takes these meatballs from good to wow! The sweet and tangy cranberry pairs perfectly with the spicy chili sauce, creating a flavor explosion. Pour this sauce over your arranged meatballs, making sure they’re all nicely coated.
Bake the Meatballs
Pop those bad boys in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. I always check for doneness by cutting one open; you want them to be nice and juicy, with no pink in the center. The sauce will bubble and caramelize just a bit, making everything even more delicious!
Serving Suggestions
Once they’re out of the oven, serve your meatballs warm. They’re fantastic on their own, but I love to garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair them with a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. On average, a serving size of four meatballs (which is about 250 calories) packs a good punch with:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 15g
This makes them a satisfying option while still keeping it relatively light. Just remember, if you make any substitutions or add extra ingredients, the nutritional values will change. Enjoy your meatballs guilt-free!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make these easy cranberry meatballs, here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your dish and ensure success every time!
- Add Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme into the meatball mixture. It adds a lovely freshness that really brightens up the dish!
- Play with Sauces: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces! Instead of chili sauce, try BBQ sauce for a sweeter twist, or even a spicy sriracha sauce if you like things hot.
- Make Them Ahead: If you’re prepping for a party, you can make the meatballs ahead of time. Just shape them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This saves you time and stress!
- Don’t Skip the Parchment: Remember to always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup so much easier and prevents the meatballs from sticking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about doneness, using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still give you delicious meatballs. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a splash more milk to keep them moist.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are super versatile! You can serve them as a stand-alone appetizer, over rice or pasta, or even in a sandwich. Pair them with a salad or some crunchy veggies for a complete meal!
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for parties or busy weeknights.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze well for up to two months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned?
Definitely! Homemade cranberry sauce can add a fresh touch to your meatballs. Just make sure it has a similar sweet-tart flavor profile to balance the chili sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy cranberry meatballs are truly a game-changer in the kitchen! Here’s why I think you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in a flash! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet cranberry and zesty chili sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful surprise!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself on a cozy night in, these meatballs fit right in.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love them! They’re a fantastic way to get everyone excited about dinner.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prep these meatballs in advance, making them a great option for stress-free entertaining.
- Easy Cleanup: With the parchment paper trick, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Trust me, once you try these easy cranberry meatballs, they’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy salsa dip recipe or baked cranberry turkey sliders!
Print
Easy Cranberry Meatballs: 5 Sweet and Savory Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple recipe for easy cranberry meatballs that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 can (14 ounces) cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a separate bowl, combine cranberry sauce and chili sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- You can add herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: easy cranberry meatballs, meatball recipe, cranberry sauce
