Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Name: Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (24 oz) bag fully cooked beef, turkey, or plant-based meatballs; 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce; 1 cup chili sauce; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Pinch of salt

Published: January 25, 2026

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of cranberry and chili sauce creates a unique taste that will impress your friends and family.
Versatile Dish: Great for parties, weeknight dinners, or holiday gatherings—these meatballs suit every occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their mouthwatering flavors make them hard to resist, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.
Healthy Alternatives: Using turkey or plant-based meatballs provides healthier options without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your cranberry sauce meatballs, gather the necessary tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large saucepan or slow cooker
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

Large saucepan or slow cooker: This is essential for simmering the sauce and heating the meatballs evenly without burning.
Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon allows you to stir ingredients thoroughly and coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 (24 oz) bag of fully cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)

For the Sauce

1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 cup chili sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

If using frozen meatballs, ensure they are fully cooked and thawed before starting.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large saucepan or slow cooker:
1. Combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Heat the Sauce

Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble:
1. Allow it to simmer for about 3–5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Add the Meatballs

Add the thawed meatballs to your bubbling sauce:
1. Stir gently to coat them evenly with the flavorful mixture.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Reduce heat to low:
1. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving if desired:
– Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Sauce Meatballs!

How to Serve Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a weeknight dinner, these meatballs can be the star of your meal or a delightful addition to your spread.

As an Appetizer

Serve warm in a slow cooker for easy access during gatherings. Guests can help themselves while mingling.

On a Bed of Rice

Spoon the meatballs and sauce over fluffy rice. The rice absorbs the flavors, making it a satisfying main dish.

With Pasta

Pair the meatballs with spaghetti or another pasta for a twist on classic Italian cuisine, enhancing your meal’s heartiness.

In Sliders

Place meatballs in small buns and garnish with fresh parsley for delicious sliders that are perfect for parties or game days.

Topped on Crostini

Use toasted bread slices as a base and add meatballs for an elegant appetizer that is easy to eat with your hands.

In a Salad

Add warm meatballs to a mixed green salad. The sweet and savory flavors will elevate your greens and make for a filling dish.

How to Perfect Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

To ensure your Cranberry Sauce Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality beef, turkey, or plant-based meatballs for the best flavor and texture.
Thaw Frozen Meatballs Properly: If using frozen meatballs, let them thaw completely before cooking. This ensures even heating throughout.
Balance Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar based on your taste preference; less sugar can provide more tanginess from the cranberry sauce.
Simmer Carefully: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce long enough for flavors to meld but avoid boiling to prevent toughening them.
Garnish for Appeal: Adding fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also makes your dish visually appealing.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Cranberry Sauce Meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement their sweet and savory profile. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that balances the tangy sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and freshness to your plate, offering a crisp contrast to the richness of the meatballs.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables adds nutrition while providing a nutty flavor that pairs well with the meatball dish.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the sauce for a refreshing bite.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread serves as an excellent pairing, soaking up extra sauce and adding warmth to your meal.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with cranberry flavors while providing added nutrition.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light yet satisfying, allowing the meatball flavors to shine through without overwhelming your palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Sauce Meatballs, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to achieve the best flavor and texture.

Using uncooked meatballs: Always start with fully cooked meatballs. If they’re frozen, make sure they are thawed before adding them to the sauce for even cooking.
Neglecting to stir the sauce: Stirring is crucial while simmering. It ensures that the meatballs are evenly coated and prevents the sauce from burning at the bottom of the pan.
Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjusting salt or sweetness can enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Overheating during reheating: When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the meatballs. Low heat helps maintain their juicy texture.
Choosing the wrong container for storage: Use airtight containers for storing leftovers to prevent contamination and maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cranberry Sauce Meatballs.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute beef, turkey, or plant-based options based on your preference.

How long do Cranberry Sauce Meatballs last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they last up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Can I add spices to my Cranberry Sauce Meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like chili powder or cumin for extra flavor.

What should I serve with Cranberry Sauce Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or as a topping for open-faced sandwiches.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors that work well for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different meats or spices according to your tastes. Try this easy recipe today and impress your family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card