Do Share Recipe

Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) | Festive Appetizer

I have to admit—I didn’t think I’d become obsessed with Quick Cranberry Meatballs (Christmas Recipe) during the holidays, but here we are. One chilly December, I stumbled upon this recipe and the sweet-and-savory aroma instantly won me over. Every bite felt festive, comforting, and just a little magical.

Now, these meatballs are a staple at my Christmas gatherings. Honestly, they disappear faster than I can grab a second one! You can also enjoy something equally delightful like these quiche stuffed bagels recipe for a cozy holiday breakfast.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these festive meatballs shine. I’ve included tips from my kitchen experiments to get the best results.

1 bag frozen meatballs (about 750g) – Frozen saves time; homemade works too for a more personal touch.
1 can jellied or whole cranberry sauce – Jellied is classic; whole berry adds texture.
1 cup BBQ sauce – Any kind works; smoky or chipotle gives an extra kick.
2 tbsp soy sauce – Or Worcestershire for a deeper, savory flavor.
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional) – Adjust based on the sweetness of your cranberry sauce.
A pinch of chili flakes (optional) – Adds warmth; leave out if your crowd prefers mild.

Note: Serves 6–8 depending on portion size.

Variations

Mix things up with these options:

Swap beef meatballs for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use sugar-free cranberry sauce for a low-sugar version.
Add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist.
For a smoky flavor, try chipotle BBQ instead of regular.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large saucepan or slow cooker – Perfect for simmering meatballs evenly.
Spoon – Essential for stirring and coating meatballs with sauce.
Lid or foil – Keeps heat and moisture in for tender meatballs.

How to Make Quick Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes in your saucepan or slow cooker. Stir to break up the cranberry sauce and mix everything well.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

Place frozen meatballs directly into the sauce—no need to thaw. Cover and simmer on medium heat, then reduce to low for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Finish and Taste

Once the sauce is glossy and the meatballs are heated through, taste for seasoning. Adjust with more sugar, soy sauce, or a splash of orange juice if needed.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I never rush cooking; low heat prevents burnt sauce.
Stir the sauce first before adding meatballs to avoid lumps.
I sometimes pinch one meatball mid-cook for a taste check—professional reasons, of course!
Don’t worry if the sauce looks thin—it thickens as it cools.

How to Serve Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Serve them hot in a festive bowl with toothpicks for easy grabbing. I like sprinkling fresh parsley on top for a holiday look. They also pair beautifully over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. For another cozy comfort dish perfect for Christmas mornings, try this banana croissant french toast casserole recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot for each serving:

Calories: 250–300 (depends on meatball brand)
Protein: 12–15g
Carbohydrates: 20–25g
Fat: 12–15g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days; flavors improve overnight.
Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container; reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker.
Reheating: Simmer on low until heated through, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this recipe has become my holiday favorite:

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute guests.
Crowd-pleasing: Sweet, tangy, and savory—hard not to love.
Flexible ingredients: Swap meats or sauces to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
Festive presentation: Looks impressive on a holiday buffet without extra effort.

These Quick Cranberry Meatballs are my go-to for any holiday party. They’re simple, flavorful, and just festive enough to impress everyone without stress. I can’t wait for you to try them at your Christmas table!

Ben Carraoli