Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs – Easy, Festive Holiday Appetizer Recipe
Delight your guests with these Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs, an easy and festive holiday appetizer featuring tender pre-cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy and sweet cranberry chili sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Meatballs:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef or turkey)
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and heated through, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add the Meatballs: Stir in the frozen pre-cooked meatballs, coating them evenly with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 20 minutes until the meatballs are thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving bowl or keep warm in a slow cooker if preferred. Garnish with chopped parsley or rosemary to add a festive touch if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Use turkey meatballs for a leaner option or beef meatballs for a richer flavor.
- Make ahead by preparing the sauce in advance and storing it refrigerated; reheat and add meatballs just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added aroma and color.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce after adding the meatballs.
