why make this recipe
This recipe makes tasty, sweet and tangy meatballs. They work as an easy party snack or a simple weeknight dinner. The flavors are familiar and most people like them.
introduction
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are simple to make with common ingredients and a quick sauce. If you want a holiday style idea, see this Christmas cranberry meatballs recipe for another take.
how to make Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Ingredients :
1 pound ground beef or turkey, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 cup cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup chili sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and soy sauce. Heat over medium heat until bubbly.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice for a dinner.
For a faster shortcut version, you can try this quick cranberry meatballs idea.
how to serve Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Serve warm on a platter with toothpicks for a party. You can also serve them over white rice or mashed potatoes for a simple dinner. A side salad or steamed vegetables make a good balance.
how to store Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Cool the meatballs to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan on low heat or in the oven until hot. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a tray, then move to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
tips to make Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
- Do not overmix the meat mixture; mix until just combined.
- Make small, even meatballs so they cook at the same time.
- Use either beef or turkey depending on your taste.
- Taste the sauce and add a little salt if needed before tossing.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
- Use ground pork or a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley after cooking for freshness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the meatballs first, then put them in the slow cooker with the sauce and heat on low for 2 hours.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?
A: Yes. Cook fresh cranberries with sugar and a little water until they break down, then mix with chili sauce and soy sauce.
Q: Are these safe to make ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make the meatballs and sauce a day ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I bake at a lower temperature for longer?
A: You can bake at 375°F for a little longer, about 20-25 minutes, if you prefer gentler cooking.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Conclusion
For another slow-cooker version with tips and steps, see this Cranberry Meatballs Recipe (Slow Cooker) | The Kitchn. If you want a classic crowd-pleasing recipe with ratings and reviews, try this Cranberry Meatballs Recipe | Allrecipes.
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and soy sauce. Heat over medium heat until bubbly.
- Toss the cooked meatballs in the sauce until well coated.