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–+ servings
image of realistic top down mise en place shot fresh ingredients arranged on white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight ground beef ground pork frozen meatballs jellied cranberry sauce whole berry cranberry sauce chili sauce worcestershire sauce brown sugar breadcrumbs eggs minced onion salt black pepper bbq sauce maple syrup cinnamon ground allspice ground clove fennel seeds garlic fresh chile pepper sriracha green onions fresh parsley orange zest cilantro

Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

These Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a holiday tradition featuring tender meatballs in a sweet and tangy cranberry-chili glaze. Made with just 3 main ingredients and perfect for slow cooker convenience, this festive appetizer disappears faster than you can say "Happy New Year!"
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Simmer Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 32 oz frozen meatballs beef, turkey, or beef/pork blend - pre-cooked
  • 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce 14 oz can - whole berry preferred for texture
  • 1 bottle chili sauce 12 oz bottle - Heinz brand recommended
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar light or dark - optional but recommended
Flavor Boosters (Optional)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce adds savory umami depth
  • 1/2 tsp allspice ground - adds warm Christmas aroma
  • 1 tsp orange zest freshly grated - brightens flavor profile

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In the bowl of a 4-quart slow cooker, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and brown sugar. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, allspice, and orange zest for enhanced flavor.
  3. Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture. Gently stir until all meatballs are evenly coated.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, until meatballs are heated through and sauce has thickened.
  5. Switch to KEEP WARM setting and serve with toothpicks. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 1.8mg

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in slow cooker on LOW for 1-2 hours.
Variations: Substitute ground turkey for lighter option, or use plant-based meatballs for vegetarian version.
Serving Ideas: Serve over rice or egg noodles for complete meal, or in slider buns for mini sandwiches.
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