These meatballs in cranberry sauce are a fun and tasty treat! The sweet and tangy sauce gives them a delicious twist that makes them perfect for any gathering.
They are super easy to whip up, and trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds. Pair them with toothpicks for a simple appetizer that will disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use ground beef, pork, or even go for turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Mixing beef and pork gives great flavor and tenderness. I personally love a beef and pork blend for the best taste!
Breadcrumbs: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work in a pinch. I once used crushed cornflakes, and it added a nice crunch to the meatballs!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. I always keep some cheese on hand for added flavor!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best, but frozen ones are a great alternative too. When using frozen, there’s no need to thaw—just add them straight into the sauce. Sweetened dried cranberries could work too if you adjust the sugar.
Seasonings: Feel free to switch up the herbs based on what you have. Basil or thyme could be delicious instead of oregano. You could also use a pinch of chili flakes for some heat!
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
Keeping meatballs tender is all about how you mix and cook them. Overmixing can toughen the meat, so handle the mixture gently. Here are some tips:
- Combine ingredients until just mixed—don’t knead it like dough!
- Use a large scoop or your hands to shape them; this ensures they’re not packed too tight.
- Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps them brown nicely without steaming.
- Consider adding a bit more milk or breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet or too dry; the consistency should be sticky but formable.
With these tips, your meatballs will turn out soft and juicy every time!
Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp orange juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. The meatballs are quick to make and the cranberry sauce simmers while you cook them. Perfect for a flavorful and festive meal without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and oregano. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate as you finish each one so they’re ready for cooking.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (don’t crowd the pan) and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the cranberries, water, sugar, orange juice (if using), cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring to a simmer, cooking for about 10 minutes. You’ll see the cranberries burst and the sauce will thicken. This gives it a lovely sweet and tangy flavor!
5. Combine the Meatballs and Sauce:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and gently stir them in the cranberry sauce, making sure they are well coated. Let them cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. If you like, you can garnish them with a sprig of fresh rosemary or your favorite herbs. Serve warm as an appetizer or alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or bread for a delightful main dish.
Enjoy these deliciously sweet and savory meatballs in cranberry sauce that bring a festive touch to your table!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen meatballs, just thaw them completely before adding them to the cranberry sauce. You can simmer them directly in the sauce for 10-15 minutes to heat through and let them absorb the flavor.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs a day in advance! Once cooked, allow them to cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the sauce when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep them moist!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Definitely! You can adjust the sugar based on your taste preference. If you want it less sweet, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or even less. Tasting the sauce while it simmers will help you find the perfect balance for your liking!
