Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe
Introduction
These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are perfect for festive gatherings, combining tangy cranberry sauce with savory meatballs for a delightful appetizer. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, they bring a seasonal twist to any party spread.
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
- 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.
- Step 2: Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce, stirring to coat them evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are heated all the way through.
- Step 3: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary if desired, and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- For a sweeter flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the sauce mixture before heating.
- Try using turkey meatballs for a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to maintain sauce consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and meatballs a day ahead. Reheat gently before serving to keep the meatballs tender and sauce flavorful.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce works well, but you may want to adjust the sugar levels to maintain the balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
PrintQuick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe
These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring tender pre-cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy and sweet cranberry-chili sauce, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to delight your guests.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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 the mixture over medium heat until it becomes smooth and heated through, which takes about 5 minutes.
- Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen pre-cooked meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet or saucepan, and let the meatballs simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until they are thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or a slow cooker set to warm to keep them hot during your gathering. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked meatballs for a quick and easy recipe.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of orange juice to the sauce.
- Keep the meatballs warm in a slow cooker during serving for convenience at parties.
- This recipe works well with either beef or turkey meatballs depending on your preference.
Keywords: Christmas appetizer, cranberry meatballs, holiday party food, quick meatball recipe, festive appetizers
