1. Add Meatballs to Crockpot:
Place the frozen or homemade meatballs in the slow cooker. Make sure they are evenly distributed for even cooking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, honey or brown sugar, soy sauce (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to coat each meatball evenly.
4. Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1½–2 hours. The meatballs should be hot and the sauce thickened and bubbly.
5. Finish and Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley and a little orange zest over the meatballs for a festive touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving and Storage:
Serve these Christmas Cranberry Meatballs as an appetizer at holiday parties, or alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a main dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Tips:
- Use homemade meatballs for extra flavor and control over ingredients.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce with more or less honey or brown sugar.
- Add a splash of orange juice for an extra citrusy twist.
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 15–20 minutes.
- Pair with toothpicks for easy serving at parties.
Conclusion:
Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are a simple, festive, and flavorful addition to any holiday menu. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes them irresistible, and the slow cooker does most of the work. Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a cozy holiday meal at home, this recipe delivers crowd-pleasing results every time.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Frozen meatballs work perfectly and save time. Just increase cooking time slightly if needed.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve as a holiday appetizer on a platter with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites.
- Place over creamy mashed potatoes for a sweet-and-savory main course.
- Pair with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a festive dinner plate.
- Use as a filling for sliders with soft dinner rolls for a fun party snack.
Variations:
- Spicy Cranberry Meatballs: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
- Pineapple Twist: Add 1/2 cup crushed pineapple to the sauce for a tropical holiday flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free meatballs and soy sauce alternative (like tamari) to keep it safe for sensitive guests.
- Mini Meatball Bites: Use smaller meatballs for bite-sized appetizers, perfect for cocktail parties.
Party Tips:
- Keep the crockpot on the “warm” setting for easy self-serve at gatherings.
- Garnish with extra orange zest or fresh herbs for a visually festive presentation.
- Offer toothpicks, mini forks, or small skewers to make serving easy and mess-free.
- Pair with holiday cocktails, sparkling cider, or a festive punch for a complete celebration spread.
Extra Notes:
These meatballs are versatile, delicious, and very forgiving. You can adjust sweetness, tang, and seasoning according to taste. They are also a fantastic make-ahead option: cook them fully, refrigerate, and reheat just before serving to save time during the busy holiday season.