why make this recipe
Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs are a delightful and easy appetizer that brings festive flavors to your table. The combination of sweet cranberry and tangy orange creates a unique glaze that pairs perfectly with tender meatballs. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
how to make Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs
Ingredients :
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
Directions :
- In a large skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce over medium heat. Stir until well mixed and heated through.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them in the glaze.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is sticky and glossy.
- Serve warm as a festive appetizer.

how to serve Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs
Serve these meatballs warm, either on a platter for a buffet-style event or on a decorative tray for a more formal setting. You can use toothpicks for easy serving, allowing guests to enjoy them as finger food. Pair them with a refreshing drink or festive punch to complement the flavors.
how to store Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
tips to make Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs
- If you prefer homemade meatballs, feel free to make them using your favorite recipe. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding to the glaze.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- You can also garnish the meatballs with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by substituting the orange marmalade with apricot jam or peach preserves for a different fruity taste. Additionally, consider adding other seasonings, like garlic or ginger, for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs work perfectly fine! Just make sure they are heated all the way through in the glaze.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and meatballs separately and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the meatballs, and cook until hot.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers are great as a quick meal or snack. You can serve them over rice, in a sandwich, or even on a salad for a tasty twist!
Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Festive meatballs coated in a sweet cranberry and tangy orange glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce over medium heat. Stir until well mixed and heated through.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them in the glaze.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is sticky and glossy.
- Serve warm as a festive appetizer.
Notes
For a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the glaze. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg




