Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe
Introduction
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. With a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce and tender pre-cooked meatballs, this dish comes together effortlessly to impress your guests.
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 to 20 minutes until the meatballs are heated 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 before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or a pinch of cinnamon to the sauce.
- You can substitute turkey meatballs for a lighter option or use homemade meatballs if preferred.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy party snacking.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, heat it up and add the meatballs to finish cooking.
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Brown and cook homemade meatballs first, then simmer them in the cranberry sauce as instructed for best results.
PrintQuick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs for Festive Gatherings Recipe
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs combine sweet and tangy jellied cranberry sauce with zesty chili sauce for a festive appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Using pre-cooked frozen meatballs makes preparation simple, allowing you to simmer them in a flavorful sauce that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings (about 2 meatballs per serving) 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 over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen pre-cooked meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or place in a slow cooker set to warm to keep them hot. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary for a festive touch.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs to reduce cooking time and simplify preparation.
- Adjust brown sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added color and flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it great for parties and gatherings.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.
Keywords: Christmas appetizers, cranberry meatballs, holiday party food, quick meatballs, festive appetizers
