Irresistible Quick Cranberry Meatballs Recipe in 30 Minutes

Delightful and delectable, Quick Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender meatballs glistening with a tangy cranberry sauce, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma that beckons even the pickiest eaters.

Picture this: a cozy gathering with friends, laughter echoing around the kitchen, and everyone reaching for those sticky-sweet meatballs. This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it creates memories that linger long after the last bite. The best part? They are unbelievably easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights or festive celebrations.

My family still talks about the time I made these meatballs for a game night. Everyone was so enamored that they almost forgot to cheer for their teams!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for tender meatballs that aren’t overly greasy.

• Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and help bind the meat.

• Cranberry Sauce: Opt for whole berry cranberry sauce for a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness.

• Onion: Finely chopped onions bring moisture and flavor; sauté until fragrant.

• Egg: One egg acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.

• Garlic Powder: A teaspoon adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.

• Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds color and brightness; chop finely before adding.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Form Meatballs: Using your hands, shape mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet; this step helps prevent sticking during cooking.

Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake meatballs for 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Add the Cranberry Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbly. Stir occasionally; you want it warm but not boiling.

Combine & Serve: Gently toss baked meatballs in warm cranberry sauce until well coated. Transfer them to a serving platter; garnish with parsley if desired.

Enjoy indulging in these Quick Cranberry Meatballs at your next gathering or cozy night in! Your guests will rave about how deliciously addictive they are!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create these quick cranberry meatballs, mix the ingredients, shape the meatballs, then bake until golden brown before simmering in the sauce to enhance flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add spices like garlic powder and onion flakes for extra flavor. A pinch of crushed red pepper can spice things up too.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or use a microwave.

Sometimes I think my friends come over not just for my company but for these meatballs! Their faces light up every time I serve them; it warms my heart.

FAQ

Can I make Quick Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh.

What can I serve with Quick Cranberry Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even as a sandwich filling.

Can I freeze Quick Cranberry Meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze them after cooking and thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Quick Cranberry Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 18 meatballs (6 servings) 1x

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Description

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate any gathering. These tender meatballs, coated in a tangy cranberry sauce, are not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to impress your guests. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions, this dish combines simplicity with a mouthwatering taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional), chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/70°C).
5. While baking, heat the cranberry sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
6. Toss the baked meatballs in the warm cranberry sauce and serve on a platter garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg