Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a tasty and easy dish that everyone will love. Made with tender meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, it’s perfect for gatherings!
These meatballs are so effortless to make—you just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. Plus, they make a great party snack. I can’t resist sneaking a few! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, pork, or turkey meatballs for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade meatballs made from ground meat, breadcrumbs, and egg are a tasty alternative that can elevate this dish.
Cranberry Sauce: You can opt for whole berry for a chunkier texture or jellied for a smoother sauce. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for no-sugar-added versions or make your own from fresh cranberries.
Chili Sauce: While chili sauce adds a nice kick, ketchup works too if you prefer a milder flavor. Try using barbecue sauce for a different twist!
Brown Sugar: For a healthier alternative, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just note, it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Flavored?
One of the keys to delicious meatballs is ensuring they stay moist while cooking. Here are some tips:
- Keep them frozen until you add them to the crockpot. This helps them hold their shape.
- The sauce mixture helps keep the meatballs moist. Stir occasionally to coat evenly.
- Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop without drying out the meatballs. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain temperature.
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)
- 1 (12 oz) jar cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup chili sauce (or ketchup for a milder taste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish is super quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep work. Then, let the crockpot do the magic: cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. So, all in all, you’re looking at about 10 minutes of hands-on time plus some cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs right into the crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them first—just toss them in straight from the freezer!
2. Make the Sauce Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a spoon to stir until everything is well mixed and the sugar is dissolved.
3. Coat the Meatballs:
Now, take your delicious sauce mixture and pour it over the meatballs in the crockpot. Make sure every meatball is coated with that yummy sauce!
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. You can choose low for a longer cooking time (4-6 hours) or high for a quicker option (2-3 hours). They’re ready when they’re heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
5. Stir Occasionally:
If you can, give the meatballs a gentle stir every so often while they cook. This helps to coat them evenly with the sauce and enhances the flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish your meatballs with fresh rosemary or parsley if you like! They can be served warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or alongside rice or mashed potatoes as a heartier meal.
Enjoy your sweet, tangy, and tender Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs! They’re a hit at parties and family dinners alike!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, as they will cook faster than frozen ones.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meatballs. For the sauces, feel free to swap with barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce mixture the night before and store them in the fridge. Just pop it all into the crockpot in the morning for an easy, ready-to-eat meal later in the day!
