Name: Easy Cranberry Beef Meatballs Festive Holiday Appetizer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: About 32 oz of meatballs
Ingredients: 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce; 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce; 1/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked beef meatballs

Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – Easy, Festive Holiday Appetizer – that’s a phrase that instantly conjures images of cozy gatherings, twinkling lights, and the irresistible aroma of holiday cheer. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both incredibly simple to make and bursting with festive flavor, then you’ve landed on the perfect recipe. These Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – Easy, Festive Holiday Appetizer are a beloved staple for so many reasons. People adore them because they strike that perfect balance between savory and sweet, with the tangy cranberry sauce cutting beautifully through the richness of the meatballs. What truly makes them special, however, is their effortless preparation. In under an hour, you can transform humble ingredients into a dazzling appetizer that will have your guests reaching for more, making them an indispensable part of your holiday entertaining spread.

Ingredients:

1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey work equally well)

Making the Festive Cranberry Meatball Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Sauce Base

The foundation of these delightful meatballs is the sweet and tangy sauce. Begin extract by opening the can of jellied cranberry sauce. You can either scoop the entire contents into a medium saucepan or gently shake the can to release it in one piece. Add the entire bottle of chili sauce to the same saucepan. The chili sauce provides a savory depth and a hint of spice that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Step 2: Sweeten and Spice the Sauce

Now it’s time to enhance the flavor profile of our sauce. Add the ¼ cup of packed brown sugar to the saucepan. Using packed brown sugar will ensure you get the correct amount of sweetness, which helps balance the tartness of the cranberries and the savory notes of the chili sauce. Next, sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Garlic powder is a convenient way to add that pungent, aromatic garlic flavor without having to mince fresh garlic, making this recipe even quicker. Finally, add the ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. This adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the sauce, preventing it from being overly sweet.

Step 3: Simmer and Meld the Flavors

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the cranberry sauce has broken down and is well combined with the chili sauce. Once the mixture starts to simmer gently, reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and harmonious sauce that will coat the meatballs perfectly. You’ll notice the sauce will thicken slightly during this process.

Adding the Meatballs and Warming

Step 4: Introduce the Frozen Meatballs

Once your sauce has had a chance to simmer and develop its wonderful flavor, it’s time to add the star of the show: the meatballs. Carefully add the entire bag of frozen pre-cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the simmering sauce. Be sure to gently stir them in so that each meatball is coated with the glossy, festive sauce. Using pre-cooked meatballs is a key element in making this recipe incredibly quick and easy, as they just need to be heated through.

Step 5: Heat Through and Serve

Continue to cook the meatballs in the sauce over low heat, stirring gently and occasionally, for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The goal here is to heat the meatballs thoroughly while ensuring they are completely enrobed in the cranberry-chili sauce. You’ll know they are ready when they are piping hot throughout. To check, you can carefully remove one meatball and cut it in half to ensure it is heated through. Avoid boiling the meatballs vigorously, as this can make them tough. The low and slow approach ensures they remain tender and juicy. These meatballs are best served warm straight from the saucepan. You can also transfer them to a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting to keep them at the perfect temperature for a party or gathering. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary for an extra festive touch before serving.

Conclusion:

And there you have it – your very own batch ofQuick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – Easy, Festive Holiday Appetizer! We’ve walked through creating these delightful, sweet and savory bites, perfect for any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a large party or enjoying a cozy evening with loved ones, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Their vibrant color and irresistible flavor profile make them a standout appetizer that truly embodies the spirit of the season.

For serving suggestions, consider arrangin extractg them on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats like cheese and crackers, or even a selection of holiday dips. They are also fantastic served on their own as a self-contained appetizer. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture. If you prefer a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry mixture. Experimenting is part of the fun! I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – Easy, Festive Holiday Appetizer with everyone you cherish this holiday season. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and the sauce separately up to 2 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the meatballs and sauce together on the stovetop or in a slow cooker on low heat.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?

No problem! You can create a quick substitute by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and a splash of water until they burst and thicken. Alternatively, you can use a good quality orange marmalade for a different but still delicious citrusy sweetness.

Are these meatballs suitable for a make-ahead buffet?

Yes, they are excellent for a buffet! The slow cooker method is particularly ideal for keeping them warm and ready to serve throughout your event.