These Cranberry Chipotle Cocktail Meatballs are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Made with juicy meatballs, cranberry sauce, and a kick of chipotle, they are perfect for parties.
Everyone loves them, and they disappear fast. I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. Just stand back and watch the smiles as friends go for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can stick with all ground beef, but for a richer flavor, try a mix of beef and pork. Ground turkey or chicken can work too for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using plain breadcrumbs. If you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead. It adds great texture!
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce is best for this recipe, as it adds a delightful texture. If fresh cranberries are in season, you can simmer them with sugar and water to make your own sauce.
Chipotle Peppers: Adjust the chipotle to your comfort level. If you prefer less heat, you could use just a bit of the sauce or even a mild chili powder.
Egg and Milk: Unsweetened applesauce can substitute for the egg, and any non-dairy milk works well here for richness, in case of dietary needs.
How Do You Ensure Your Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Making juicy meatballs is all about mixing carefully and not overworking the meat. Here’s how:
- Combine the ingredients gently in a bowl, just until they are mixed. Over-mixing can make your meatballs tough!
- Shape the meatballs into uniform sizes for even cooking, about 1 inch in diameter is ideal.
- Baking is a great technique because it allows for even cooking without added oil. Make sure to place them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have mouth-watering meatballs that stay juicy and delicious!
Cranberry Chipotle Cocktail Meatballs
Ingredients:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably whole berry)
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives
- Small fruit cubes for garnish (pineapple or mango)
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking. With a little time on the stove for the sauce, you should have these delicious meatballs ready in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make clean-up easy later!
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spoon and mix gently until everything is just combined. Remember, don’t over mix!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each meatball.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the meatballs in the oven and bake them for 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and nicely browned. Turn them once halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cranberry sauce, chopped chipotle peppers, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir the mixture gently and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
After the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the saucepan with the cranberry chipotle sauce. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly. Let them simmer together on low heat for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the sauced meatballs to a serving dish. For a fun and colorful touch, garnish each meatball with a small cube of fresh pineapple or mango secured with a toothpick. This adds a lovely burst of flavor!
8. Enjoy!
Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives over the dish for freshness, and serve the meatballs warm as a tasty appetizer or snack. Everyone will love the sweet, spicy, and savory combo!
This recipe makes about 24-30 meatballs, perfect for parties or gatherings. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a little extra moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk or a splash of broth.
How Spicy Are These Meatballs?
The heat level can be adjusted based on your preference! Start with 1 tablespoon of chipotle peppers, and taste the sauce. If you prefer it milder, you can use less chipotle or omit it entirely and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them raw for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat in the sauce before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, making sure to include some sauce for moisture. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
