These meatballs in cranberry sauce are a fun and tasty treat! The juicy meatballs are covered in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes every bite special.
Seriously, who knew that cranberry sauce could make meatballs this amazing? I love serving them at parties or just as a cozy dinner. They’re always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for its flavor and texture. You can also mix in ground pork for added juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs together. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or make your own from gluten-free bread. I often use panko for extra crunch!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use store-bought cranberry sauce for convenience, but homemade sauce tastes fantastic! For a twist, consider using orange cranberry sauce for added citrus flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten up the dish. Feel free to experiment with thyme or chives for a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Cook Meatballs?
Shaping and cooking meatballs can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right! Begin by mixing your meatball ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs. Use your hands to form balls; a scoop helps keep them uniform in size.
- Cook meatballs in batches; this helps them brown nicely. Overcrowding the pan makes them steam.
- Don’t flip them too much! Allow each side to get a nice golden crust before turning.
- Keep an eye on the heat. Medium is usually best for cooking through without burning the outside.
Cooking them this way gives that lovely texture and flavor you want!
Meatballs In Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice (to thin the sauce if needed)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as dill or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick yet satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, or your meatballs may turn out tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Once mixed, scoop out enough mixture to form small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This will help them cook evenly and make for perfect bite-sized pieces!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown nicely on all sides. Once they are nicely browned and cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the cranberry sauce. If it seems too thick, stir in the water or orange juice to thin it out a bit. Warm it up gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the sauce is warm, return the meatballs to the skillet. Gently coat them in the cranberry sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to soak up some of that delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These tasty meatballs can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter version. You can also use a mix of pork and beef for added flavor and juiciness!
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance. Just refrigerate them un-cooked and then cook them right before serving. You can also freeze cooked meatballs in the sauce for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve with Meatballs in Cranberry Sauce?
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables also complements the dish nicely!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.