Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an ideal dish for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings. Tender meatballs, made with ground turkey or beef, are combined with hearty stuffing mix and a touch of sweetness from tangy cranberry sauce. This dish is effortlessly made in the slow cooker, which means minimal prep work and a lot of flavor with little fuss. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a main meal, these meatballs bring festive comfort and joy to your table.
The recipe itself is simple yet full of depth. The combination of stuffing mix with ground meat makes each meatball soft and flavorful, while the cranberry sauce adds a burst of sweetness that complements the savory meat and spices. As the meatballs cook in the slow cooker, they soak up the cranberry sauce, becoming even more tender and delicious. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that feels both hearty and festive. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast or a family meal, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker
– Servings: 6-8 servings (about 20 meatballs)
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Effortless Cooking: With the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks or relax while dinner cooks itself.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The mix of savory meat, herbed stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce creates a dish that hits all the right notes.
3. Versatile: Serve as an appetizer at a party or as a main course with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
4. Holiday Vibes: The cranberry stuffing combo is wonderfully festive and perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience.
Ingredient Notes
– Ground Meat: Ground turkey, beef, or a blend of both work well in this recipe. Ground turkey is a leaner option, while beef will provide a richer flavor.
– Stuffing Mix: You can use traditional stuffing mix or opt for a gluten-free version if necessary.
– Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. For an extra tang, consider using cranberry relish or a combination of cranberry and orange sauce.
– Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. Adding a pinch of sage or thyme can enhance the stuffing-like flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, stuffing mix, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir in about 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce to incorporate the flavor. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
3. Add Cranberry Sauce: Pour the remaining cranberry sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are all covered. You can also sprinkle a little extra seasoning on top if desired.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs are done when they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve: Once done, carefully remove the meatballs and spoon the sauce over them. Serve warm with your favorite sides or enjoy as an appetizer.
Storage Options
– Refrigerating: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs after they’ve cooled completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat in the microwave or slow cooker.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground meat for plant-based meat alternatives or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
– Different Sauces: Instead of cranberry sauce, try using a different fruit-based sauce, such as apple or cherry, for a unique twist.
– Add-ins: Consider adding finely chopped onions, celery, or garlic to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs are a comforting, festive, and fuss-free dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at a holiday gathering. With their perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The best part is that they’re simple to make and easy to adapt based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, these meatballs will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.