Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe

Introduction

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. With a sweet and tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with savory meatballs, this easy stovetop recipe will be a hit with guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal dish for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are heated through.
3. Step 3: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• No need to thaw frozen meatballs; add them directly to the sauce to save time.
• For homemade meatballs, cook them fully before adding to the cranberry sauce.
• Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice to the sauce for an extra flavor boost.
• Use a slow cooker on warm to keep the meatballs ready for party guests.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this recipe great for make-ahead entertaining.

Storage

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, just make sure to cook fresh meatballs fully before adding them to the sauce to ensure they are heated through and safe to eat.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can substitute meatballs with vegetarian or plant-based meatballs available at most grocery stores. Follow the same instructions and adjust cooking time as needed based on the product.

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe

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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring savory pre-cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy, sweet cranberry and chili sauce, this easy stovetop recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 32 meatballs (serves 8 as appetizer) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the meatballs simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated.
3. Serve: Transfer the cranberry meatballs to a serving bowl or place them in a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting to keep them hot during your party. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary if desired for a festive touch.

Notes

• There is no need to thaw frozen meatballs before adding them to the sauce.
• If using homemade meatballs, ensure they are pre-cooked before simmering in the sauce.
• For an extra flavor boost, try adding Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice to the sauce.
• Use a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep the meatballs hot throughout your gathering.
• Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Keywords: Christmas appetizers, cranberry meatballs, holiday party food, easy meatball recipe, festive appetizers