Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs are the perfect dish for any occasion. Not only are these meatballs irresistibly tasty, but they are also incredibly easy to prepare. Imagine coming home after a busy day to the warm aroma of meatballs simmering away in your slow cooker. With the delightful combination of sweet and tangy cranberry sauce and the rich flavour of chili sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favourite. Whether it’s game day, a festive gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, these meatballs have got your back!
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs
To whip up these delicious meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (26 oz) package frozen meatballs (approximately 735 g)
- 1 (12 oz) bottle chili sauce (approximately 340 g)
- 1 (15.5 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce (approximately 440 g)
How to Make Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs
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Place the Meatballs: Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into the bowl of your slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them first; they’ll cook perfectly from frozen.
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Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chili sauce and jellied cranberry sauce until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. This is where the magic happens; the balance of sweet and savoury will coat the meatballs beautifully!
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Coat the Meatballs: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring that they are all well-coated. Give them a gentle stir to ensure every meatball is covered.
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Let it Cook: Cook the meatballs on LOW for about 4 hours, or if you’re in a rush, on HIGH for 2 hours. Be sure to stir halfway through the cooking time to distribute the sauce evenly.
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Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve the meatballs warm with toothpicks for easy eating, or spoon them over rice or mashed potatoes. You can also pair them with fresh vegetable sticks or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Serve & Enjoy Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs
These delightful meatballs can be served in various ways. For a fun party platter, keep them warm in the slow cooker and provide toothpicks for easy access. If you’re enjoying them as a main dish, serve the meatballs over a steaming bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. They can also be paired with a light salad or fresh vegetable sticks, making for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the meatballs.
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Add Extra Flavour: For a twist, consider adding in some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add a bit of heat.
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Make it Healthier: You can use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of traditional beef meatballs for a lighter option.
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Use Different Sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of sauces; barbecue sauce works wonderfully too!
Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if they’re not frozen—homemade meatballs may only need about 2-3 hours on LOW.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can! Simply prepare the sauce and meatballs, combine them, and store in the fridge overnight. Cook the next day in the slow cooker as described.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!
Bring some excitement into your kitchen with these Cranberry Slow Cooker Meatballs. Their simple preparation and delicious flavour will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate – give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste and easy cooking that this dish brings!