These tasty crockpot cranberry meatballs are a perfect balance of sweet and savory. With juicy meatballs covered in a rich cranberry sauce, they are simply irresistible!
Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner, these meatballs make everyone happy! Just toss them in the crockpot, and let the magic happen while you relax. Who can say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, pork, or turkey meatballs based on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, I recommend lean turkey meatballs. If you want a meatless version, try plant-based meatballs!
Cranberry Sauce: Look for whole berry cranberry sauce for texture and bursts of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, jellied sauce works too! You can also make your own by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and a splash of water.
Barbecue Sauce: Any barbecue sauce works, but a tangy or slightly spicy one complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce really well. Don’t have BBQ sauce? Try using a combination of ketchup and hot sauce for a quick substitute!
Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, white sugar works, but consider adding a touch of molasses or honey for that rich flavor. Coconut sugar is also a great alternative if you’re looking for something less refined.
Do You Struggle with Getting the Right Sauce Consistency?
The sauce is crucial for these meatballs! Mixing it well before adding to the meatballs ensures everything is evenly coated. It helps create that sweet and tangy flavor we’re after!
- Combine the sauces in a bowl until they’re fully blended.
- Make sure to stir the meatballs gently after you add the sauce to coat them. This way, each meatball gets deliciously covered.
- During cooking, a gentle stir every now and then keeps the sauce from sticking and burning on the edges of the crockpot.
Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)
- 1 12-ounce jar cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh rosemary or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then you let it cook in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal ready by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your crockpot. No need to thaw them—just go straight from freezer to crockpot!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth, making sure all the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot. Gently stir to coat all the meatballs evenly with the sauce. This will help infuse delicious flavors throughout the cooking process!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs are done when they are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and fragrant.
5. Stir Occasionally:
If you can, give the meatballs a gentle stir throughout the cooking time. This will help ensure they stay coated in that flavorful sauce and don’t stick to the sides of the crockpot.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, garnish the meatballs with fresh rosemary or parsley for a touch of color and added flavor. Serve them warm, either as a tasty appetizer with toothpicks or as a delightful main dish paired with rice or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy a delightful combination of savory meatballs with a tangy cranberry glaze—ideal for holiday gatherings or any cozy meal!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, checking for doneness. Fresh meatballs will cook faster than frozen ones.
Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular barbecue sauce with a low-sugar or sugar-free version to keep the carbs down. Also, serve the meatballs over steamed vegetables instead of rice or mashed potatoes for a lower-carb meal.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own or served with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad. They also make a great sandwich filling or can be served as a fun appetizer with toothpicks!