Hey there, friends! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you: Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs! These little guys are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory, and they’re always a hit at parties. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make – just dump everything in a slow cooker and let it do its thing!
Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE This Recipe
- Effortless: Seriously, it takes like 5 minutes to prep.1
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good meatball, and the cranberry sauce adds a festive twist3.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy hosts – make them ahead of time and keep them warm in the slow cooker1.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, a main course over rice, or even in sliders!
Quick Facts
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 26 oz package frozen meatballs1
- 1 12 oz bottle chili sauce1
- 1 15.5 oz can jellied cranberry sauce1
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Place frozen meatballs in the bowl of the slow cooker1.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the chili sauce and cranberry sauce1.
- Pour sauce over the top of the meatballs1.
- Cook meatballs on low for four hours or high for two hours, stirring halfway through cook time1.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking5.
- Main Course: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Meatball Sliders: Put them on slider buns for a fun and festive sandwich.
Tips for Customization
- Spice it Up: Add a few shakes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat2.
- Add Some Zest: Mix in a tablespoon of orange juice for a brighter flavor6.
- BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of chili sauce for a smoky flavor7.
- Meatball Variety: Try Italian or turkey meatballs for a different flavor profile4.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
While I love homemade cranberry sauce, I recommend using the jellied kind for this recipe. The flavor of homemade cranberry sauce might get lost4.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just cook them according to the instructions and keep them warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve1.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled meatballs in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months7.
Nutritional Information (per serving of 5 meatballs)3
- Calories: 282kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 15g
These Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs are a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!
