When you’re short on time but still want a dish that wows at any gathering, these Quick Cranberry Meatballs are your go-to solution. Juicy, savory meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce create the perfect balance of flavors in just minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or planning a weeknight dinner with flair, this dish delivers both ease and taste.
These meatballs are a holiday favorite and a party staple, but don’t reserve them just for special occasions. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can whip them up whenever a craving hits. Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks or make them the main event over rice or mashed potatoes—either way, they’re sure to be devoured.
What Kind of Meatballs Work Best?
You can use homemade or store-bought meatballs—both work great here. Frozen meatballs are especially convenient and save time, but if you have a favorite homemade version, go for it. Just make sure they’re pre-cooked if you want to keep this recipe quick.
Ingredients for the Quick Cranberry Meatballs
- 1 (14-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (2-pound) bag frozen pre-cooked meatballs
How To Make the Quick Cranberry Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through.
Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Add the frozen meatballs directly into the sauce. Stir to coat all the meatballs evenly. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to a serving dish or keep warm in a slow cooker set to low. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve as an appetizer or main dish.
How to Serve and Store These Meatballs
These meatballs are as versatile as they are delicious. Serve them as cocktail meatballs at your next party with mini forks or toothpicks, or turn them into a hearty meal by pairing with rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. You can also freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the sauce.
What can I use instead of chili sauce?
You can substitute ketchup with a dash of hot sauce or barbecue sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Can I cook these in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine everything in your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not really. The chili sauce adds tang more than heat. Adjust spice levels to your taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce, then store in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If these quick cranberry meatballs are your kind of party food, check out these crowd-pleasers too:
- Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe for buttery, flaky bites.
- Candied Jalapenos if you like a sweet and spicy kick.
- One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for an easy dinner that feels indulgent.
- Authentic 7 Layer Mexican Dip to add bold flavor to your table.
- Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for the ultimate comfort food side.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so it’s always within reach.
And when you make them, come back and tell me how it went! Did you go classic or get creative with the sauce? Tried a spicy twist? I love seeing how you bring these recipes to life.
Looking for more everyday meal inspiration? Head over to my Pinterest where I share new recipes daily!
Quick Cranberry Meatballs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate combination of sweet, tangy, and savory, made in minutes using frozen meatballs and a simple homemade cranberry sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or easy weeknight dinner, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Ingredients
1 14-ounce can jellied cranberry sauce
1 12-ounce bottle chili sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
1 2-pound bag frozen pre-cooked meatballs
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through.
2. Add the frozen meatballs directly into the sauce. Stir to coat all the meatballs evenly.
3. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through.
4. Transfer to a serving dish or keep warm in a slow cooker set to low.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve as an appetizer or main dish.
Notes
For a homemade touch, use your favorite cooked meatball recipe instead of frozen.
Make it spicier by adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper.
These meatballs freeze well—perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5–6 meatballs
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cranberry meatballs, party meatballs, quick appetizer
