These tasty Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are super easy to make! Just mix frozen meatballs with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. A perfect party snack or a simple dinner!
Whenever I make these, they disappear fast! They’re perfect on toothpicks for gatherings, and let’s be real, you might just end up eating your weight in them. 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cooked Meatballs: You can use beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try homemade turkey meatballs or even plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian version.
Cranberry Sauce: Whether you choose whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce is a personal preference. For a twist, try adding some orange zest to the sauce for extra zing.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand! For a spicier kick, look for a BBQ sauce with a bit of heat, or make your own if you’re up for it. A teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce can also be tasty substitutes.
Worcestershire Sauce: If you don’t have this on hand, soy sauce can work in a pinch. It gives a similar depth of flavor but will alter the taste slightly.
How Do I Ensure the Meatballs are Perfectly Flavored?
The key to flavorful meatballs lies in the sauce. Mixing the cranberry and barbecue sauces with Worcestershire adds layers of sweetness and depth. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the sauces in a bowl first. Taste it to adjust flavors if needed—if you like it sweeter, add more cranberry sauce; if you want it tangier, a splash of vinegar can help.
- Ensure the meatballs are fully coated by gently stirring them in the sauce after cooking. This step makes sure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Remember, the longer you let them cook, the more the flavors meld. These meatballs are a hit served warm with toothpicks or over rice for a meal. Enjoy!
Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll cook the meatballs in the crockpot for 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high. A simple and relaxing dish to prepare with delightful results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. It’s a simple step, but it brings all the flavors together.
2. Add the Meatballs:
Grab your frozen meatballs and place them right into the crockpot. No need to thaw; they’re perfect straight from the freezer!
3. Coat the Meatballs:
Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the frozen meatballs. Use a large spoon to stir gently, ensuring all the meatballs are coated evenly with the delicious sauce.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or on high heat for about 1.5-2 hours. They are ready when they are heated through and the sauce is bubbly!
5. Stir Before Serving:
Once they are cooked, give the meatballs a gentle stir again before serving to distribute any sauce that may have settled at the bottom. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the meatballs to a serving bowl and sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. They can be served hot as a fun party appetizer with toothpicks or as a satisfying main dish over a bed of rice or alongside crusty bread.
Enjoy these tender, flavorful meatballs! The sweet-tart cranberry glaze is perfect for any gathering or a comforting home meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs will add a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot, as the cooking time here is to heat them through rather than cook them.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No problem at all! You can substitute with any sweet and tangy sauce like teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce. This will give your meatballs a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sauce and meatballs in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer everything to the crockpot and heat as directed. This is especially helpful for meal prepping or when hosting gatherings!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy them as a tasty snack or quick meal!
