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–+ servings
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Savory Cranberry Sauce Meatballs for Puckering Flavor Bliss

These Cranberry Sauce Meatballs combine sweet and spicy ingredients for a delightful dish that's perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Cranberry Sauce Adds sweetness and tang; consider using homemade for a fresher flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Enhances sweetness; coconut sugar can be a less processed alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Introduces warmth and spice; adjust to your taste or swap with paprika for milder heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds earthiness and depth; feel free to omit if you're sensitive to spices.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Provides a spicy kick; adjust based on desired heat level; black pepper works as a milder substitute.
For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Fully Cooked Meatballs Main source of protein that absorbs the fruity flavors; turkey or vegetarian options are perfect for lighter meals.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Sauce Meatballs
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir these ingredients together well until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture.
  2. Set the saucepan over medium heat and allow it to warm for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce starts to bubble gently, indicating it’s heated through.
  3. Once the sauce is warmed, gently add the fully cooked meatballs to the pan. Stir carefully to ensure each meatball is well coated with the glossy cranberry sauce.
  4. Continue to cook on medium heat for another 5 minutes, ensuring the meatballs absorb the sweet and spicy flavors of the sauce.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce and meatballs simmer together for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. After simmering, check that the meatballs are heated through and steaming in the center. Remove from heat.
  7. Spoon the Cranberry Sauce Meatballs onto a serving platter, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick meal option later. Serve with toothpicks for appetizers or over rice for a hearty meal.

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