Go Back
A plate of savory cranberry meatballs glazed in a tangy sauce, perfect for appetizers.

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These sweet and tangy Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a festive and easy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup chili sauce
  • 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar optional, depending on sweetness preference
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or orange juice for brightness
For the Meatballs
  • 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Method
 

Preparing the Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about two bites in size.
  3. Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they hold their shape.
Making the Sauce and Cooking
  1. In a slow cooker, pour in the whole berry cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon or orange juice. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the cooked meatballs to the slow cooker.
  3. Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or HIGH for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Switch to the WARM setting to serve.

Notes

These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen. Prepare the sauce and meatballs separately to simplify the reheat process. Keep extra lemon or orange juice on hand to adjust the sauce thickness if needed. Pair with crunchy sides for balance.