Quick 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
Scale
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
