There’s something magical about hearing the laughter of friends while the scent of cranberry meatballs fills the air. These sweet and savory bites bring warmth to any holiday table. Quick to make, festive to serve, and bursting with flavor, cranberry meatballs turn ordinary gatherings into cozy celebrations.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how these cranberry meatballs fit any occasion. They work beautifully as appetizers or as a main dish with rice or noodles. They’re also great for make-ahead meals, keeping their rich flavor even after reheating. Plus, that cranberry glaze gives every bite a hint of sweet tang you’ll crave all season long.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatball Essentials
Start with lean ground pork for tender, juicy meatballs. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, and grated onion for structure and moisture. A bit of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup deepens the flavor. Always use fresh pork that’s pink and mild in scent.
You can swap ground pork for turkey, chicken, or beef. If you use poultry, add a drizzle of olive oil for extra moisture.
Cranberry Sauce & Flavor Base
Cranberry sauce is the star here. You can use homemade or store-bought. For something extra special, try this Honey Bourbon Cranberry Sauce for a deeper, richer flavor.
If you’re out of cranberry sauce, grape jelly or raspberry jam with a splash of vinegar makes a quick alternative.
Pantry-Friendly Substitutions
No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers or quick oats. Dried parsley works fine if you’re out of fresh. Replace lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or even lime juice. For a lighter sweetness, use honey instead of brown sugar.
How to Make Cranberry Meatballs (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup stays easy.
Step 2 – Mix & Shape Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Combine gently until the mixture looks even. Then wet your hands and roll into 32 even balls.
Step 3 – Bake to Perfection
Arrange meatballs on the baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and the inside temperature reaches 160℉.
Step 4 – Make the Cranberry Sauce
While the meatballs bake, stir together cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to simmer. The sauce should thicken slightly and shine.
Step 5 – Combine, Garnish & Serve
Toss baked meatballs in the warm cranberry sauce until coated. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve cranberry meatballs with toothpicks for easy appetizers. For a meal, spoon them over rice, noodles, or slider rolls. Add a side of Roasted Green Beans with Garlic and Parmesan for a balanced plate.
They also look lovely next to Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels (Perfect Holiday Appetizer) or Baked Cranberry Brie Bites for a full holiday spread.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them with sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, thinning the sauce with a splash of water or broth if needed.
You can even make them ahead of time and refrigerate both sauce and meatballs separately. Combine before serving for a fresh finish.
Nutrition Overview
This recipe yields about 1200–1400 calories total. Expect roughly 90–100g of protein, 60–70g of fat, and 130–150g of carbs per batch. It’s filling, balanced, and perfect for sharing.
Quick Cranberry Meatballs Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Meatballs Recipe – Sweet, Quick & Festive Favorite
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 32 meatballs (8 servings) 1x
Description
Sweet and savory cranberry meatballs baked in 45 minutes — perfect for Christmas dinners and holiday parties.
Ingredients
MEATBALLS
1 small onion, grated or finely diced
1½ pounds lean ground pork (90–95% lean)
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup tomato ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
SAUCE
2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
1 cup tomato ketchup
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
OPTIONAL GARNISH
Fresh chopped parsley for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground pork, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper until combined.
3. Wet hands, then shape the mixture into about 32 even meatballs. Use a scoop for consistency.
4. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Internal temp should reach 160℉.
5. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat.
6. Add baked meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently until fully coated. Simmer 5–10 minutes to thicken and glaze.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm as an appetizer or over rice, noodles, or slider rolls.
Notes
Tips:
Use fresh lean pork for juicy results. If using turkey or chicken, add olive oil for extra moisture.
Substitutions:
Breadcrumbs → crushed crackers or oats
Cranberry sauce → grape jelly + vinegar
Lemon juice → apple cider vinegar
Brown sugar → honey or sugar + molasses
Storage:
Refrigerate up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Freeze up to 3 months with sauce.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, thinning sauce with a splash of water or broth if needed.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with toothpicks as appetizers or over rice, noodles, or slider rolls for a main meal.
Pair with roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for a full dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Christmas Dinner Recipes
- Method: Bake and Simmer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
More Such Recipes
- Honey Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
- Cranberry and Feta Pinwheels (Perfect Holiday Appetizer)
- Roasted Green Beans with Garlic and Parmesan
- Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
FAQ
Does cranberry sauce go with meatballs?
Yes, cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tart note that balances savory meat perfectly. It’s especially popular around the holidays for its festive flavor.
What kind of meat is used in cranberry meatballs?
Lean ground pork is traditional, but you can also use beef, turkey, or chicken. Each brings its own texture and taste.
What to serve cranberry meatballs with?
They go great with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or small dinner rolls. Add a green veggie for color and balance.
What does cranberry pair with?
Cranberry pairs well with pork, turkey, chicken, cheese, and citrus. It adds brightness to rich dishes.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry meatballs are a joyful mix of comfort and celebration. They remind you that simple food can make big memories. Make a batch, share them with your loved ones, and let the holiday cheer begin.
Follow Kai Recipes on Pinterest and Facebook for more cozy, home-cooked inspiration.