Unbelievable Meatballs
Sweet and savory meatballs simmer in a flavorful sauce of spaghetti and cranberry, perfect for parties or family dinners, offering a unique twist on classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make your favorite recipe for meatballs; do not brown.
- Combine spaghetti sauce and cranberry sauce.
- Place the meatballs in a slow cooker or large saucepan.
- Add the sauce mixture to the meatballs.
- If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 4 hours.
- If using a saucepan, cover and cook on low heat for 1 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a lean ground meat for your meatballs to keep them moist. You can substitute the Ragu spaghetti sauce with homemade marinara or any favorite brand. If you want a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. This dish is also great with turkey or chicken meatballs for lighter options, and pairs beautifully with Peach-Cranberry Yam Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal. They can be garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or garlic bread. These meatballs are also great for game day gatherings or casual dinners with family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unbelievable Meatballs contains roughly 300 calories, with 7g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just add them directly to the slow cooker or saucepan without thawing. Cook them on low for the recommended time, and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with spaghetti, rice, or even as a filling for sandwiches. For a light option, serve them with a side salad or roasted vegetables. They also make great appetizers at parties when served with toothpicks.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and heat when ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
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).