Cranberry Sauce Meatballs – Sweet, Tangy, and Perfect for Any Occasion
These sweet and savory cranberry sauce meatballs are perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or crowd-pleasing appetizers. Juicy meatballs coated in a tangy, sticky glaze — easy to make and even easier to love.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef or turkey
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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¼ cup finely chopped onion
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
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1 cup barbecue sauce
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Optional: ¼ cup chili sauce
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Optional: 1–2 tbsp orange juice or apple cider
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Optional: 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire
Instructions
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Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
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Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
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In a skillet, combine cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and any optional ingredients. Simmer until smooth.
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Add meatballs, toss to coat, and simmer 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens.
Notes
Use frozen meatballs for a shortcut.
Add hot sauce or chili flakes for extra spice.
Great for parties, holidays, or served over rice.