With the holiday season upon us I'm planning out my meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Holiday appetizers need to be easy, delicious but not so overindulgent that everyone is full before dinner. With this recipe for Cranberry Meatballs, all those necessities for a perfect holiday appetizer are met. This recipe is a delicious appetizer for cold weather that you'll want year round.
How to make cranberry meatballs
Cranberry meatballs are an easy appetizer to make this holiday season. For the easiest method, I use frozen meatballs (though you can still make your own) to make this recipe. I found that mini meatballs work the best, though if you have a bag of those large italian meatballs in your freezer those will work too. Then it's as simple as combining all of the ingredients into a pot and cooking until the sauce is thickened. To make life even easier, this recipe could also be modified to be made in a slow cooker.
How to store Cranberry Meatballs
This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the microwave. If you want to freeze meatballs, wait for them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer safe storage container. Cranberry meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat either microwave on the defrost setting or let thaw in the refrigerator and heat on stovetop or microwave.
When to serve cranberry meatballs
The answer to this is whenever you want, but obviously these crowd favorites are best at either Thanksgiving or Christmas when cranberries are in season and on everyone's mind. I've also served this in winter months and it still disappears just as quickly as when I make this during the holidays. Good food needs no season 😉
other great appetizers
Blistered Brown Butter Shishito Peppers
Cranberry Meatballs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Frozen Meatballs mini or party
- 14 Oz Jellied Cranberry Sauce
- 12 Oz Chili Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Orange Juice
Instructions
- Empty meatballs into a large pan on medium heat. Add cranberry sauce, chili sauce and orange juice. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for 20 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
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Arya's Corner
I can't even with all of that floof. She's just too cute!
About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
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