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Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Bite-sized meatballs coated in a glossy cranberry glaze, perfect for festive gatherings and easy to prepare with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the meatballs
  • 1 pack Frozen cocktail meatballs or homemade mini meatballs Use either store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
For the sauce
  • 1 can Whole berry cranberry sauce Adds texture with soft berries.
  • 0.5 cup Chili sauce or ketchup Chili sauce offers more tang, but ketchup works too.
  • 0.25 cup Brown sugar or honey Use either for a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh orange zest For brightness.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh orange juice Adds tangy depth.
  • 1 clove Minced garlic Enhances flavor.
  • 1 dash Salt To taste.
  • 1 dash Black pepper To taste.
  • 1 splash Apple cider vinegar (optional) For extra tang if desired.

Method
 

Prepare the Sauce
  1. Stir together cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, orange zest, orange juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Allow the mixture to bubble gently until smooth and shiny.
Cook the Meatballs
  1. Toss in your meatballs. If frozen, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and the sauce clings.
  2. If using homemade cooked meatballs, warm for 6 to 8 minutes until saucy.
Finishing Touches
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more orange juice for brightness or a pinch of salt if needed.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley for extra color before serving.

Notes

Use whole berry cranberry sauce for texture. Balance sweetness with a touch of apple cider vinegar. Make ahead by preparing the sauce two days in advance. Serve warm in a slow cooker.