meatball and cranberry sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best meatball and cranberry sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite meatball and cranberry sauce recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a casual weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

The combination of juicy meatballs and tangy cranberry sauce is absolute perfection. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

The idea of combining meatballs and cranberry sauce may seem unusual at first, but trust me when I say it’s a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce perfectly balances out the savory flavor of the meatballs, creating a flavor combination that’s both unique and delicious. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this recipe can be prepared and cooked.

The meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use, making it a great option for meal prep or when you’re short on time. In addition to being delicious and convenient, this recipe also offers some amazing health benefits. Meatballs are a great source of protein, while cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

Together, they make for a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for families with kids or anyone looking for a healthy option. So if you’re looking for a new recipe to try this week or next week or any week really… I highly recommend giving this meatball and cranberry sauce recipe a try!

Your taste buds (and your belly) will thank you!

Meatball and Cranberry Sauce

Meatball and Cranberry Sauce

4.9 from 870 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring homemade meatballs and a tangy cranberry sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Cranberry Sauce

2 cups fresh cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4The mixture should hold together when squeezed.
5Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
6Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
7Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
8While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce.
9In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg.
10Stir well to combine.
11Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
12Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have broken down and the sauce has thickened.
13Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
14Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
15Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven.
16Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
17Spoon the cranberry sauce over the meatballs and serve warm.
18Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Saucepan
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.

Watch Video Of How Meatball and Cranberry Sauce Works

This meatball and cranberry sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday gathering or just an ordinary Tuesday night dinner. It works well for family gatherings because everyone loves it!

The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meatball and Cranberry Sauce

Q: Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of store-bought?

A: Yes, you can use homemade cranberry sauce if you prefer. Simply cook down fresh or frozen cranberries with some sugar and water until they break down and thicken into a syrupy consistency.

Q: What type of meat is best for meatballs?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using beef or pork meatballs. You can also mix the two meats together for a more robust flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat used.

Q: Can I serve this dish as an appetizer?

A: Absolutely! Meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser, so feel free to serve them as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.

Q: How long do the meatballs take to cook?

A: Cooking time will depend on the size of your meatballs. As a general rule of thumb, cook them for 15-20 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and lightly browned.

Q: Can I freeze the cranberry sauce separately?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cranberry sauce separately from the meatballs if you prefer. Simply thaw it out when you’re ready to serve.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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