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CHRISTMAS CRANBERRY MEATBALLS centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs Recipe Easy Ultimate Party Hit

This Christmas Cranberry Meatballs recipe is an easy cranberry BBQ sauce meatballs holiday appetizer that’s perfect for festive gatherings. These juicy meatballs are simmered in a tangy, rich cranberry-chili sauce and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether served from a slow cooker cranberry meatballs grape jelly cocktail style or on a party platter, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 appetizer servings
Calories: 260
Ingredients Method Notes

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)

Method
 

  1. Combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat and stir until the mixture is smooth and hot, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the frozen meatballs directly into the sauce and mix to coat them thoroughly.
  3. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the meatballs simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fully heated.
  4. Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish or keep them warm in a slow cooker.
  5. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or rosemary if you like, and serve warm.

Notes

  • No need to defrost meatballs before adding to the sauce. For homemade meatballs, ensure they are fully cooked before adding. For an extra flavor kick, try stirring in Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice. Keep your appetizer warm using the slow cooker’s warm setting. Leftovers reheat well and the flavors improve overnight.