These cranberry meatballs are a fun and tasty treat! Made with juicy meatballs and a tangy cranberry sauce, they’re perfect for parties or a cozy dinner.
Honestly, who can resist those sweet and sour flavors? Plus, they’re super easy to make! I love serving them with toothpicks for a fun appetizer that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but a mix of beef and pork adds extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken will work, too! Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs are very common, but you can use panko for a bit more crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great substitute if you’re avoiding gluten. I often use crushed saltine crackers in a pinch!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor, but frozen will work just fine. If you can’t find either, try dried cranberries mixed with some water to rehydrate them. Just adjust the sugar since they are sweeter.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the sauce, but bottled juice can also do the job. For a twist, try using pineapple juice for a different sweet flavor!
How Do I Get Perfectly Round Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs may seem simple, but consistency matters! To help keep them uniform:
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to measure the mixture.
- Roll them gently between your palms to get a smooth surface. Don’t press too hard; this keeps them tender!
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment if baking, or directly into the skillet for frying.
The key here is gentle handling to keep your meatballs light and juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Meatballs?
You have options! Browning in a skillet gives them a nice crust, but baking is hands-off and generally easier. Here’s how to do both:
- Skillet: Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add meatballs, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning as they brown. This creates a tasty outer layer!
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes. This is a great method if you’re making a larger batch.
Both methods work well, so choose what suits your kitchen style!
How to Make Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatball Components:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Cranberry Sauce Components:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce (or whole berry cranberry sauce)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking the sauce. You’ll spend around 10 minutes making the meatballs and another 15 minutes to simmer everything together. It’s quick and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined—you don’t want to overwork the meat, or the meatballs can become tough.
2. Form the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to make them all roughly the same size to ensure they cook evenly. Once shaped, place them on a plate or cutting board as you go.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. In batches, place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, lay the meatballs out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.
4. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, grab a separate saucepan. Combine the fresh or frozen cranberries, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), and grated ginger if you want a hint of spice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs evenly. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This way, the flavors meld nicely, and the meatballs absorb some of that delicious sauce.
6. Serve:
To finish up, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Serve these tasty meatballs warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or enjoy them as a main dish alongside rice or mashed potatoes. They are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your sweet, tangy, and savory cranberry meatballs!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or a mix of pork and beef for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, so ensure they reach the proper temperature.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a substitute for breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko work well. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will be good for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them—just make sure they cool down completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce while it cooks. Adjust the amount to your spice preference for just the right kick!
