Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs Recipe
Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or casual get-together. These tender meatballs simmer in a rich cranberry sauce that’s both tangy and sweet, creating a dish that’s sure to please guests of all ages. Whether served as an appetizer or over rice for a main course, they’re versatile and packed with flavor.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the meatballs to absorb all the delicious flavors while you focus on other holiday preparations. The combination of ground meat, cranberry sauce, and a few pantry staples results in a dish that’s both festive and comforting, perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
– Servings: About 6 to 8 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Effortless Preparation: Just mix the ingredients, shape the meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the work.
2. Delicious Flavor Profile: The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce elevates traditional meatballs, making them unique and flavorful.
3. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, over rice, or in a sub sandwich for a delicious twist.
4. Perfect for Entertaining: This crowd-pleaser is great for holiday parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meatballs in advance, making it easy to serve when you’re busy.
Ingredients Notes
– Ground Meat: You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference.
– Cranberry Sauce: Use canned cranberry sauce for convenience, or make your own for a fresher taste.
– Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking; a little garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce. Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Storage Options
– Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: To freeze, let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
– Meat Alternatives: Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
– Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet and sour for varied flavors.
– Add-ins: Incorporate chopped onions, bell peppers, or herbs into the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs are a fantastic way to bring festive flavors to your table with minimal effort. This recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with a delicious sweet and savory profile, making it perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual weeknight dinners. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they cook and the smiles they bring to your guests when served. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!