Cranberry Meatball Appetizer
Sweet and savory cranberry meatballs feature a tangy sauce, perfect as an appetizer for gatherings, combining beef, cranberry, and sauerkraut flavors in a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, and onion soup mix in a large bowl.
- Combine chili sauce, water, cranberry sauce, sauerkraut, and brown sugar in a medium bowl.
- Shape the meat mixture into small balls and place them in a large baking pan.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs like parsley to the meat mixture. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can serve as effective substitutes. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying the amount of brown sugar, or use honey for a different flavor profile. This dish is reminiscent of 'Nine To Five' Meat Loaf, bringing together comfort and taste.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make a perfect appetizer served with toothpicks, but they can also be enjoyed over rice or egg noodles for a hearty meal. Pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. They complement well with 'Stack-A-Dinner' or can be served as a main dish alongside mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Meatball Appetizer contains roughly 342 calories, with 12g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 478mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them uncooked and bake directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. Alternatively, you could incorporate red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a subtle kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).