These Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs are sweet and tangy with a delicious sauce that’s perfect for any gathering. Just mix the meatball ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work!
Honestly, who can resist a meatball bath in cranberry goodness? I could eat these all day, especially as an easy appetizer for parties or game days. They’re a crowd-pleaser!
I love how simple they are to make; just toss everything in and relax while they cook. Serving them with toothpicks makes for a fun and tasty snack everyone enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey for a lighter option. If you’re looking for something leaner, turkey is a great choice. You can also try ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegan option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but I tend to use panko for extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, there are excellent gluten-free breadcrumbs that taste just as good!
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce is easy to make and can be seasoned to your taste, but store-bought is super convenient. If cranberries aren’t your jam, a fruit-based barbecue sauce can work as a substitute for a different flavor.
Chili Sauce: If you need to adjust the spice level, consider salsa or a mild hot sauce instead. I prefer a sweet chili sauce for a nice balance of heat and sweetness.
How Do You Form Meatballs That Hold Their Shape?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but the right technique makes a big difference. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your ingredients are mixed evenly but avoid over-mixing, as that can make the meatballs tough.
- Use a scoop or your hands to form the meat into 1-inch balls. Keeping them uniform in size helps them cook evenly.
- Chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you have time. This helps them hold together better while cooking.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, you can get everything ready and let the slow cooker do the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure all your ingredients are nicely blended!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Once formed, place the meatballs on a baking sheet to keep them separate while you prepare the sauce.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar (if you’re using it), and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture is smooth. This will give your meatballs a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor!
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs, ensuring they are all coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
5. Slow Cook the Meatballs:
Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be cooked through and tender when they’re done. You can use a meat thermometer to check—they should reach at least 160°F (70°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve the meatballs warm right from the slow cooker. If you like, spoon some extra sauce over the top. They make a perfect appetizer or serve them over rice for a delicious main dish. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and makes the meatballs a bit lighter. Just be aware that turkey can be a little drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash of broth or a bit more egg to keep the meatballs moist.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more brown sugar or even a bit of honey. Start with an additional 1 teaspoon at a time, mixing thoroughly until you reach your desired sweetness. On the other hand, if you want it less sweet, simply omit the brown sugar altogether!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to freeze leftovers, they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and cranberry sauce mixture a day in advance! Just store the uncooked meatballs covered in the refrigerator and mix the sauce in a separate container. On the day you plan to serve, just add them to the slow cooker and cook as directed. It’s a fantastic time-saver!
