These meatballs in cranberry sauce are a fun twist on a classic dish! They are sweet, tangy, and super easy to make. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a party snack!
I love how these little bites pack a big flavor punch. Plus, there’s something satisfying about watching them disappear from the plate so quickly! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken also works great. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep them moist!
Bread Crumbs: Regular bread crumbs are fine, but if you need gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead. You could also use panko for a lighter texture.
Cranberry Sauce: I love using store-bought whole berry cranberry sauce for convenience, but if you prefer homemade, just blend fresh cranberries with sugar and a splash of water. It takes a bit longer but has a fresh taste!
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs or add some red pepper flakes for heat. If you love fresh herbs, chopped fresh parsley or basil can brighten the dish too!
How Do You Cook Meatballs Without Burning Them?
Cooking meatballs perfectly can be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure they’re delicious and well-cooked:
- Use medium heat. Too high will burn the outsides while leaving the insides raw.
- Don’t crowd the skillet! Cook in batches to give each meatball enough room to brown.
- Turn them carefully. Use tongs or a fork to gently roll them without breaking.
- Check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for beef.
If you find that your meatballs start to stick, you can add a bit more oil to the pan for the next batch. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely grated or chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
For The Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 12-ounce (340 g) jar whole berry cranberry sauce (or homemade cranberry sauce)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or cloves for warmth
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 25 minutes to cook. Total time from start to finish is around 40 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your tasty meatballs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by soaking the bread crumbs in milk for about 5 minutes to soften them. Then, in a large bowl, combine the softened bread crumbs with ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and herbs if you’re using them. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly until it’s well combined.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. It’s helpful to keep your hands wet to prevent the mixture from sticking to you!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan—and cook them, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through (this should take about 8-10 minutes). Once done, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add the cranberry sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and any spices you’d like to include for warmth. Stir the mixture well and let it come to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the meatballs to the skillet with the cranberry sauce. Make sure to coat each meatball well with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors and allow the meatballs to soak up the delicious sauce.
6. Serve:
Your meatballs in cranberry sauce are now ready to serve! Spoon the sauce generously over the meatballs and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. These tasty bites pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty piece of bread along with a fresh salad!
Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen meatballs, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before adding them to the sauce. You can heat them gently in the sauce until warmed through for about 10 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Bread Crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs on hand, feel free to use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce while reheating can help keep them moist!
Can I Add More Flavor to the Sauce?
Definitely! For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for some brightness, or add a bit of hot sauce if you like some heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor significantly!
