Cranberry Sauce Meatballs: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Save this recipe on:

Juicy, tender meatballs drenched in a luscious cranberry glaze—this dish is the perfect balance of savory comfort and festive sweetness. Whether you’re serving them as a holiday appetizer or a cozy weeknight dinner, cranberry sauce meatballs offer a rich flavor profile that feels both homey and special. The tartness of the cranberries melds beautifully with the savoriness of the meat, and every bite is a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something unforgettable.

These meatballs are a great make-ahead option too—ideal for parties, potlucks, or meal prep. Just a handful of pantry staples and frozen or freshly made meatballs transform into a showstopping dish that always gets people asking for the recipe. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and irresistibly sticky in the best way possible.

---

Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or homemade, see note)
• 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 cup chili sauce (such as Heinz)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)

---

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce and chili sauce. Stir continuously until the cranberry sauce melts into a smooth consistency. Add in the brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a tangy-sweet glaze.

---

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

If you’re using frozen meatballs, there’s no need to thaw them. Simply add them straight into the saucepan with the cranberry glaze. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly. If you’re using homemade meatballs, make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the sauce.

---

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly and cling beautifully to the meatballs as they heat through. For an even richer flavor, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker on low heat for 2–3 hours.

---

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the cranberry-glazed meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve them hot as an appetizer with toothpicks, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a main course.

---

Storage Instructions

Cranberry sauce meatballs store exceptionally well, making them ideal for meal prepping or leftovers. Allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

If freezing a large batch, portion into smaller containers to make thawing and reheating easier.

---

Estimated Nutrition

The following nutrition values are based on one serving (about 4–5 meatballs, using frozen meatballs and full-sugar sauces):

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the brand and type of meatballs and sauces used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of meatballs work best for this recipe?

Beef, turkey, pork, or even plant-based meatballs all work well. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before simmering in the sauce.

Can I make the sauce less sweet?

Yes, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a cranberry sauce labeled “low sugar” or “no sugar added.”

Is it okay to use fresh cranberry sauce instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s smooth and not overly chunky so it blends well with the chili sauce.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours.

How do I make homemade meatballs for this?

Mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, and seasoning. Roll into balls and bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free meatballs and make sure your chili sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free certified.

What can I serve with cranberry sauce meatballs?

Mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or even slider buns make great companions. They’re also fantastic as a party appetizer.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just make sure your pot or slow cooker is large enough to handle the increased volume and extend the cook time slightly if needed.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: