Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich, glossy cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.

By @appetizersandentrees

Original recipe source

Cook time: 35 minutes

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 0.25 cup milk
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 14 oz whole berry cranberry sauce
• 0.5 cup chili sauce
• 0.25 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 0 fresh orange zest (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned and cooked through, turning occasionally. Drain excess grease.
4. In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss until evenly coated.
6. Cover and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until the sauce is thick, glossy, and delicious.
7. Ensure ground beef meatballs reach 160°F, while turkey meatballs need 165°F. Let them simmer a little longer for even more flavor.
8. Prepare these meatballs ahead and reheat before serving. You can also keep them warm in a slow cooker for your holiday gathering.
9. Add a little fresh orange zest for a festive citrus twist (optional).
10. Serve the meatballs as a holiday appetizer.