These meatballs in cranberry sauce are a fun twist on a classic dish! The sweet and tangy sauce makes the meatballs juicy and full of flavor.
Your guests will love this dish at parties. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser! I usually serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. So simple and so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just keep in mind that these meats might be less fatty, so they may dry out easier.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together. If you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I’ve found that crushed crackers can also work in a pinch!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great, but frozen ones can make your life easier and are just as tasty. In a jam, you can mix in some cranberry sauce instead for quick flavor!
Olive Oil: You can use vegetable oil if you prefer. I like the flavor of olive oil, but any neutral oil will work just fine. For a unique twist, try using flavored oils like garlic-infused olive oil.
How Can I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Perfectly cooked meatballs should be browned on the outside and juicy on the inside. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Heat the oil in the skillet before adding your meatballs. This helps create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
By following these steps, you’ll have delicious meatballs that shine in the sweet cranberry sauce!
Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll end up with delicious meatballs covered in sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk. Just put them in a small bowl and let them sit for about 5 minutes until the milk is absorbed.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and allspice if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s all blended together nicely.
3. Form the Meatballs:
Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20 meatballs from this recipe.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your meatballs in batches. Fry them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they’re browned all over and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
In a saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the cranberries start to burst and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 10 minutes.
6. Add Lemon Juice and Thicken:
Stir in the lemon juice to enhance the flavor. If the sauce feels too thin, mix in the cornstarch slurry and let it cook for an extra 1-2 minutes to thicken up.
7. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Carefully return the cooked meatballs to the saucepan with the cranberry sauce. Simmer all together for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are well-coated.
8. Serve:
Plate your meatballs hot and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you like. Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or a hearty main dish!
These meatballs are sure to bring smiles with their delightful sweet and tangy flavor. Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that it may need a bit more seasoning since it’s generally less fatty than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance, then cook them and refrigerate them. Just reheat them gently in the cranberry sauce before serving.
What Should I Serve With Meatballs in Cranberry Sauce?
They pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the sweet sauce. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad also make delightful side dishes!