These Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a fantastic mix of sweet and savory flavors. Juicy meatballs are cooked slowly in a tangy cranberry sauce, making them perfect for any gathering.
Honestly, they disappear faster than I can make them! They’re so easy, just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it work its magic. Perfect for game days or parties!
I love serving these with toothpicks for easy snacking. Just be careful; one meatball leads to another, and before you know it, the plate is empty! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: I love using frozen meatballs for convenience; they’re easy to throw in the crockpot. Beef, turkey, or chicken all work well. You can also make homemade meatballs if you prefer, using ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, and spices.
Cranberry Sauce: Using a whole berry variety adds a nice texture, but jellied sauce is smoother. Can’t find cranberry sauce? A mix of cranberry juice and sugar can be a quick substitute, though the flavor will be different.
Ketchup and Chili Sauce: These two sauces give the dish a signature flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-sugar or homemade ketchup works well. For chili sauce, you can use hot sauce if you want a kick!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient brightens the flavors. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice are good alternatives for that tangy taste.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor with the Meatballs?
For maximum flavor, let the meatballs soak in the sauce during cooking. Make sure to cover the crockpot to lock in that heat and moisture. Stirring gently at intervals ensures that all the meatballs are evenly coated and absorb that sweet, tangy sauce.
- Start with frozen meatballs directly in the Crockpot for best results.
- Layer your sauce evenly, making sure every meatball is coated.
- Cooking low and slow helps the flavors meld wonderfully!
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 (12 oz) jar cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. If you’re using the low setting, plan for 4-6 hours of cooking, or 2-3 hours if you’re using the high setting. Perfect for set-and-forget cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar (if you want that extra tang), garlic powder, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Layer the Meatballs:
Now, take those frozen meatballs and place them right in your crockpot. No thawing necessary! Just dump them in there, and let the crockpot do its magic.
3. Add the Sauce:
Carefully pour that delicious cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs. Use a spatula or a spoon to gently stir and coat the meatballs evenly, ensuring they’re all covered.
4. Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and has thickened up a bit. Don’t forget to stir occasionally if you can!
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. These meatballs are best served warm, either on a platter with toothpicks for appetizers or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
These Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will surely impress your guests. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply a cozy meal at home!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade meatballs, just mix your favorite ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form them into bite-sized balls and brown them slightly in a pan before adding them to the crockpot to enhance the flavor.
Can I Cook This Recipe on the Stovetop?
Yes! If you’re in a hurry, you can cook these meatballs on the stovetop. After combining the sauce ingredients, add the meatballs to a large skillet or pot, cover, and simmer on low for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the meatballs or warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like some heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Adjust based on your spice preference for the perfect kick!
