Description
Quick Cranberry Meatballs offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect festive appetizer for any holiday gathering. Ready in under 30 minutes, juicy pre-cooked meatballs are simmered in a tangy cranberry-chili sauce, delivering a rich and mouthwatering taste that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Meatballs:
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey)
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen pre-cooked meatballs, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until they are thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Once heated, transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or a slow cooker set to warm to keep them hot during your party. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary to add a fresh, festive touch.
Notes
- No need to thaw frozen meatballs—add them directly to the sauce.
- If using homemade meatballs, pre-cook them fully before adding to the sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice to the sauce.
- To keep the meatballs warm during your event, use a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
