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Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

A festive holiday appetizer featuring tender meatballs coated in a sweet, tangy cranberry glaze—perfect for parties, potlucks, and Christmas gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Party Food
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 2 lbs frozen cocktail meatballs
Cranberry Glaze
  • 1 can jellied cranberry sauce 14 oz
  • 1 cup chili sauce
  • 0.25 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Add cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a saucepan.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the cranberry sauce melts and the glaze becomes smooth.
  3. Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through.
  5. Serve warm in a bowl or chafing dish for parties.