Name: Quick Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 ounces frozen meatballs; 14 ounces cranberry sauce; 12 ounces chili sauce; 0.25 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Sticky, sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor—Quick Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate party appetizer or weeknight dinner upgrade. Juicy meatballs swim in a glossy cranberry and chili sauce that hits just the right balance of sweet and savory. The best part? You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip this dish up in under 30 minutes. It’s a lifesaver during busy holidays and impromptu gatherings.

These cranberry meatballs are also a fantastic way to bring a pop of color to your table. The vibrant sauce looks stunning next to mashed potatoes, rice, or even served solo as an appetizer with toothpicks. Whether you use frozen meatballs or roll them fresh, this recipe makes entertaining simple and stress-free.

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can use frozen, store-bought meatballs for ultimate convenience—they hold up well in the sauce and save you time. But if you have the extra 15 minutes, homemade meatballs bring a tender texture and more flavor flexibility. Turkey, beef, or even chicken meatballs all work beautifully.

Ingredients for the Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Frozen or Homemade Meatballs
Choose between ease and custom flavor. Beef adds richness, while turkey is lean and light.

Cranberry Sauce
The star of the show! Jellied or whole berry sauce both work, bringing tangy sweetness and a festive touch.

Chili Sauce
Adds a kick of spice and savory depth that balances the sweet cranberry.

Brown Sugar
Boosts the sauce’s richness and complements both the chili and cranberry.

Lemon Juice
Adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
A sprinkle on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal finish.

How To Make the Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Step 1: Combine the Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and bubbling.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

Toss in the frozen (or precooked homemade) meatballs. Stir to coat each meatball thoroughly with the sauce.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Cover and simmer the mixture on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thickened.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot as an appetizer or over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles.

How to Serve and Store These Sweet & Zesty Bites

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a dream for both serving and storage. They stay warm perfectly in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, making them ideal for potlucks and parties. If serving as dinner, try ladling them over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice.

To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. They keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Quick Cranberry Meatballs?

Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich, sweet-tart sauce.

White or Brown Rice

A neutral, fluffy base that soaks up all that sticky goodness.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Light, soft, and perfect for catching extra sauce on every bite.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized edges bring a savory bitterness that balances the sweetness of the dish.

Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

Adds creaminess and a cheesy bite without overpowering the main star.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Use these to mop up the extra sauce—you won’t want to waste a drop.

Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A light, acidic side to cut through the richness of the meatballs.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you loved these cranberry-glazed meatballs, you’ll want to try these savory sensations too:

Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs with a spicy, creamy twist.
Creamy Crab Pasta Salad for a refreshing make-ahead dish.
Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine when you need an indulgent and easy crowd-pleaser.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara if you’re craving cozy Italian comfort.
Crispy Fried Zucchini to round out your appetizer spread.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added orange zest, a splash of bourbon, or tossed in some jalapeños? Let me know how it turned out—drop your tweaks in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Add a pop of sweet and tangy flavor to your appetizer game with these Quick Cranberry Meatballs. Whether you’re throwing a holiday party, prepping game-day snacks, or just want an easy dinner idea, these saucy meatballs deliver big taste with minimal effort. A zesty combo of cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and brown sugar coats tender meatballs in a glossy glaze that’s impossible to resist. This recipe fits the bill for those searching for food ideas that work for weeknight meals, potlucks, or last-minute entertaining. Great as a quick appetizer, an easy dinner, or part of your party snack lineup.