These Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a tasty treat perfect for any gathering. With juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, they always please the crowd!
I love making these for parties because they’re so easy! Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. You can feel like a chef without any fuss! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Meatballs: You can use frozen meatballs for convenience or make your own from scratch! If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce adds great texture. You can swap it with a homemade cranberry sauce or even a sugar-free version if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Chili Sauce: The chili sauce adds a nice tang and depth. If you want something milder, a sweet and sour sauce could work, or you can use ketchup mixed with a bit of hot sauce for a kick!
Brown Sugar: This gives sweetness. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. Just adjust the quantity as needed.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a bit of umami. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or a splash of vinegar can substitute for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure the Meatballs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatballs tender and tasty is very important. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
- If baking fresh meatballs, don’t overcook them before adding them to the slow cooker. They’ll continue cooking in the sauce.
- For even flavor, stir the meatballs occasionally while they cook in the sauce. This helps them soak up that delicious cranberry-chili mixture.
- Cooking on low is preferable for juicy meatballs, but if you’re short on time, high can work too. Just don’t forget to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Enjoy these tips and happy cooking! 🍽️
Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen or fresh cocktail meatballs
- 1 (12 oz) jar whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (12 oz) bottle chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh rosemary, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and then needs to cook in the crockpot for either 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it until you’re ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
If you’re using fresh meatballs, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake them for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through. If you’re using frozen meatballs, no need to bake them; just add them directly to the crockpot!
2. Mix the Sauces:
In a medium bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and ready to coat those meatballs.
3. Load the Crockpot:
Place the meatballs in the crockpot, arranging them evenly. Then, pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs, making sure they are completely coated.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. The meatballs should be heated through, and the sauce will be bubbling with flavor. Stir occasionally to keep everything nicely mixed!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, you can sprinkle some fresh chopped rosemary on top for a nice touch. Serve these delicious meatballs warm with toothpicks as an appetizer, or over rice for a satisfying main dish.
Enjoy your sweet and tangy Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Store-Bought Meatballs Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought meatballs save time and work great in this recipe. Just make sure they are cooked through before adding them to the slow cooker if you’re using fresh ones.
Can I Make This Recipe with Turkey or Chicken Meatballs?
Yes, you can! Turkey or chicken meatballs are a fantastic, leaner alternative. Just check their cooking time, as they might be a little different based on their size.
How Do I Store Leftover Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
What Other Dishes Pair Well with These Meatballs?
These meatballs are great by themselves as an appetizer! However, for a full meal, try serving them over rice, quinoa, or even on top of a bed of greens for a fresh salad option.
