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These cranberry meatballs have saved countless holiday parties in my house. The sweet and tangy sauce transforms simple pork meatballs into something magical. Every time I make them the aroma fills my kitchen with the coziest holiday vibes.
The Perfect Party Bite
I discovered this recipe when looking for something special yet simple for my first holiday hosting gig. Now my guests hover around the slow cooker stealing bites before dinner. The combination of sweet cranberry and savory pork creates pure magic in every bite.
What You Need
- Ground Pork: 1½ pounds lean pork creates the juiciest meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup keeps everything together nicely.
- Eggs: 2 large ones for binding magic.
- Cranberry Sauce: 2 cups brings that holiday spirit.
- Tomato Ketchup: 1⅓ cups split between meatballs and sauce.
- Brown Sugar: 3 tablespoons for extra warmth.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon brightens everything up.
- Worcestershire: 2 tablespoons for that savory depth.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup adds color and freshness.
Time to Cook
- Get Ready
- Heat that oven to 350°F and line your baking sheet just like your grandma taught you.
- Mix and Shape
- Throw everything for the meatballs in a big bowl mix it up with love and roll into perfect little bites.
- Into the Oven
- Let them bake until golden about 20 minutes is my sweet spot.
- Sauce Magic
- While they bake stir up that gorgeous cranberry sauce mixture until it bubbles.
- Bring it Together
- Toss those golden meatballs in your sauce and watch the transformation.
- Final Touch
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and watch them disappear.
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Ways to Serve
Set them out with fancy toothpicks for a party or pile them on rice for dinner. My kids love them over egg noodles. Add some green veggies on the side and dinner is done.
My Secret Tips
Keep your hands wet while rolling the meatballs no more sticky mess. My ice cream scoop makes perfectly sized bites every time. Watch them closely in the oven overcooked meatballs make me sad.
Switch It Up
Sometimes I use turkey when we want something lighter. Grape jelly makes a fun twist on the sauce. When I run out of breadcrumbs crushed crackers work just fine.
Keep Them Fresh
Pop extras in the fridge they last three days but never make it that long in my house. They freeze beautifully for three months perfect for last minute guests.
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Holiday Magic
These meatballs bring such joy to my holiday table. The cranberry sauce gives them that festive touch and the prep is so simple I can enjoy time with my guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Ready in No Time
On busy holiday evenings these meatballs are my secret weapon. Just 45 minutes from start to finish leaves plenty of time for decorating and celebrating.
Make Them Your Way
My gluten free friends love these with their special breadcrumbs. For my health conscious sister I cut back on the sugar. They turn out delicious every single time.
Always a Winner
From fancy holiday gatherings to casual family dinners these meatballs never disappoint. The combination of sweet tangy sauce and tender meatballs wins hearts every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Yes, prepare up to 2 days ahead and reheat before serving.
- → What's the best way to form meatballs?
- Use wet hands or small ice cream scoop for consistent size.
- → How do I know they're done?
- Internal temperature should reach 160°F, about 20-25 minutes.
- → Can I serve as main dish?
- Yes, serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- → What type cranberry sauce?
- Either homemade or canned works well in this recipe.