These cranberry chipotle cocktail meatballs are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Made with ground meat and a flavorful sauce, they’re perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Every bite is a fun surprise, and they disappear fast! I love serving them with toothpicks so guests can snag a few while chatting—easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like a mix of beef and pork for more flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for lighter options, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may yield drier meatballs, so consider adding a splash of broth.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but panko gives a lighter texture. If you’re gluten-free, use crush rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce, depending on your texture preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade cranberry sauce can add a personal touch!
Chipotle Peppers: If you want less heat, reduce the amount. Smoked paprika could also add a slight smokiness without the spice. For a fruity twist, try adding diced mango or peach instead.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Meatballs?
The key to successful meatballs is in how you combine and cook the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so mix just until the ingredients are combined. Baking at 400°F ensures even cooking and a nicely browned exterior.
- When forming meatballs, aim for a consistent size (about 1 inch) for even cooking.
- Check meatballs with a meat thermometer — a safe internal temperature is 165°F.
- Let them rest slightly after baking before tossing them in sauce to absorb flavor without falling apart.
Cranberry Chipotle Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds
- Toothpicks, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes to prepare, 15-20 minutes for baking the meatballs, and an additional 5 minutes to cook the sauce. In total, expect to spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious appetizer with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the meatballs brown nicely while they cook. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Be gentle and mix just until everything is combined – overmixing can make the meatballs tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, roll the meat mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them evenly on the baking sheet. This will help them cook evenly and keep their shape.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until they are fully cooked and nice golden brown. You can check their doneness by ensuring they are no longer pink inside.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, let’s get the sauce ready! In a medium saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, minced chipotle peppers, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Give it a taste and add more chipotle if you like it spicier!
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them into the saucepan with the sauce. Gently toss them around until they’re evenly coated with that delicious cranberry chipotle sauce. Keep the heat on low to keep everything warm.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your beautiful, coated meatballs to a serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and add some fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds on top for a colorful and festive presentation.
8. Ready to Enjoy!
Insert toothpicks into each meatball for easy picking! Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly. Enjoy this wonderful mix of sweet and spicy flavors that everyone will love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, but keep in mind it might result in drier meatballs since turkey is leaner. Consider adding a little extra moisture, like a splash of broth, or mixing in some grated cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of minced chipotle peppers or omit them entirely. You can also use just a dash of the adobo sauce for flavor without the added heat. For a sweeter touch, increase the brown sugar slightly!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure they’re covered tightly. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for later; they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or give them a quick zap in the microwave. They make a great snack or quick meal!
