Holiday Appetizers: Cranberry Meatballs

If you’re looking for a holiday appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, these Sweet & Savory Cranberry Meatballs deserve a spot on your menu. They’re tangy, cozy, slightly sweet, and absolutely perfect for gatherings, from Christmas parties to New Year’s Eve spreads.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg, beaten

• ¼ cup finely chopped onion (or 3 tablespoons minced onion)

• 2 tablespoons water or milk

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 (16 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce

• ¾ cup chili sauce or barbecue sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice

• Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for added depth

How to Make It

1. Prep & Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix all meatball ingredients until just combined, then roll into 1-inch balls.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until browned and cooked through.

2. Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, warm cranberry sauce, chili/BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice over low heat until smooth. Add Worcestershire if using.

3. Simmer

Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 1 hour on low heat (or use a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours).

4. Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm as a holiday appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes for a meal. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Use high-quality beef. Locally raised meat gives richer flavor and better texture.

• Make them ahead. These meatballs reheat beautifully — perfect for busy holiday prep.

• Add a kick. Mix in a little hot sauce or cayenne for heat.

• Try BBQ sauce. For a smoky twist, swap chili sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce.

Make It With Farm-Fresh Beef

Want to make these meatballs even better? Start with beef from a local ChopLocal vendor.
Browse high-quality ground beef options shipped directly to your door: