Sweet Savory Cranberry Meatballs

These sweet and savory cranberry meatballs blend juicy meats and a tangy sauce for a crowd-pleasing dish that always disappears from the table at gatherings My family first tried them at a holiday get together and ever since this recipe has become our go to for any cozy celebration or potluck

Last winter I prepped a double batch to have on hand for visitors and ended up with everyone hovering in the kitchen for seconds No matter how many you make these never seem to last

Ingredients

• Ground beef: The essential base for juicy flavorful meatballs Choose freshly ground beef with an even ratio of fat
• Ground pork: Adds tenderness and a subtle richness Select pork with a bit of marbling for best results
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind and keep meatballs light Use fresh or panko breadcrumbs for a better texture
• Onion: Brings sweetness and moisture Finely chop for consistent mixing use fresh not dried
• Garlic: Adds savoriness and depth always mince fresh
• Egg: Binds ingredients into perfect spheres
• Milk: Softens the breadcrumb mixture resulting in a juicy bite Whole milk is best for richness
• Salt and black pepper: Balances flavor freshly cracked pepper is ideal
• Ground allspice: Optional but adds a warm holiday flavor dont skip unless you dislike spice
• Fresh parsley: Bright burst of color and herby freshness chop right before adding
• Jellied cranberry sauce: Sweet tart backbone of the sauce Go for smooth jellied versions for a glossy finish
• Chili sauce: Brings tang and a bit of zip look for classic American chili sauce like Heinz
• Brown sugar: Softens the tartness for a balanced glaze always use light brown for a mellow molasses note
• Apple cider vinegar: Lifts the sauce with acidity ensure you choose pure cider vinegar for brightness
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami layers and savoriness Check label for allergens or substitutes if needed
• Cayenne pepper: Optional for those who prefer a little extra heat use sparingly to taste

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Preheat oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning

Combine the Meatball Mix:

In a large bowl combine ground beef ground pork breadcrumbs onion garlic egg milk salt pepper allspice if using and fresh parsley Gently mix together with your hands just until combined Try not to overwork the meat to keep meatballs tender

Shape the Meatballs:

Pinch off about one tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to shape into one inch meatballs Place each on the prepared baking sheet spacing evenly for even cooking

Bake the Meatballs:

Place meatballs into the oven Bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes until browned on top and cooked through The internal temperature should hit one hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit Leave space between meatballs to allow for crispy edges

Make the Cranberry Sauce:

While meatballs bake add jellied cranberry sauce chili sauce brown sugar apple cider vinegar Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if using to a large saucepan Heat over medium until the mixture is smooth gently bubbling and thickened about five minutes Stir frequently so it does not scorch

Simmer Meatballs in Sauce:

Transfer baked meatballs directly into the saucepan Carefully stir to coat each meatball Simmer everything together on low for seven to ten minutes letting the rich sauce soak in

Serve:

Arrange meatballs on a serving platter or bowl Pour extra sauce over the top Serve with toothpicks as appetizers or spooned over rice for a comforting main dish

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My favorite part is always the way the cranberry sauce thickens and glazes the meatballs The first time I made these my youngest declared them better than any restaurant version we had tried Now her cousins always ask if I am bringing them before we even send invitations

Storage Tips

Leftover meatballs keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For longer storage freeze cooked and sauced meatballs laid flat for about an hour before transferring to a freezer bag Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or in the microwave until steaming hot

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version For a gluten free option use gluten free breadcrumbs and check your Worcestershire and chili sauce labels If you like a richer sauce try adding a spoonful of orange marmalade or a dash of smoked paprika

Serving Suggestions

Serve skewered as a festive cocktail party centerpiece with fresh parsley scattered on top Turn these into a main dish by ladling over fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes For brunch try piling them atop split toasted rolls for impromptu sliders

Cultural and Historical Context

Cranberry based sauces with savory meatballs draw from classic American potluck fare Cranberry sauce was once reserved for Thanksgiving but now stars in playful appetizers across the country This dish brings together the nostalgia of family holidays and the energy of modern party food

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in your favorite whole berry cranberry sauce for a more rustic texture Garnish with slivers of fresh orange zest or pomegranate arils in winter Lighten up for summer parties by using ground turkey and extra fresh parsley

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This festive meatball recipe is always a hit at our holiday table and keeps guests coming back for more Enjoy each sweet and savory bite with your favorite side or as a party snack

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other meats instead of pork?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in, maintaining the juicy texture with similar seasoning.

→ Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

No, it's optional. Adjust or omit based on your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier result.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely. Cook meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and heat through before serving for best texture.

→ What can I serve these with?

Serve warm as appetizers with toothpicks, or as a main dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

→ Are there garnish suggestions?

Try extra chopped parsley or fresh orange zest for a colorful, bright finish to complement the flavors.

→ Do I need both beef and pork?

Combining meats creates a balanced flavor and texture, but all beef will work if desired.