Go Back
–+ servings
Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Cranberry Meatballs: Easy Holiday Flavor Bombs

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a delicious and festive appetizer that combines savory and sweet flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 32 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Pork Look for pork labeled 90-95% lean
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binding agent; a flax egg can work for a vegan version
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic offers a more intense taste
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Adds depth; use fresh onion while adjusting moisture content
  • 1 tsp Salt Consider low-sodium salt for a healthier option
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce Provides distinct sweet-tart flavor
  • 1/2 cup Chili Sauce Adds sweet tang with heat; Sriracha or ketchup can be alternatives
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Deepens umami flavor; soy sauce can be a substitute

Equipment

  • Oven
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients: ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Grab portions of the meat mixture and roll them into medium-sized meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160℉.
  6. In a skillet, combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and Worcestershire sauce over medium heat until boiling.
  7. Transfer the baked meatballs to the skillet and stir gently to coat thoroughly with the sauce.
  8. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 6gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 2gCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These meatballs are best served warm, with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go at parties.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!