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Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Sauce Meatballs for Cozy Nights

These Cranberry Sauce Meatballs are a delightful twist on classic comfort food, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
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Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Appetizer, Cozy Meals, Cranberry Sauce Meatballs, easy recipe, meatballs, quick dinner
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 meatballs
Calories: 250kcal

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Ingredients

For the Sauce

  • 14 oz cranberry sauce a can adds vibrant color and tang
  • ¾ cup brown sugar enhances sweetness with rich flavor
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder introduces subtle warmth
  • ½ teaspoon cumin adds earthy notes
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne brings a delightful kick

For the Meatballs

  • 32 oz fully cooked home-style meatballs simplifies preparation

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Sauce Meatballs

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5–7 minutes until the sugar has fully dissolved.
  • Once the sauce is smooth, add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. Mix thoroughly and let the spices cook into the sauce for another 2–3 minutes.
  • Add the fully cooked meatballs to the saucepan, ensuring they are nestled in the sauce. Stir gently to coat each meatball thoroughly.
  • Reduce the heat to low and allow the meatballs to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the meatballs are heated and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Make these meatballs ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. Adjust spice levels according to preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballs | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 2mg