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–+ servings
Quick Cranberry Meatballs

Quick Cranberry Meatballs: Juicy Festive Bites to Delight

Quick Cranberry Meatballs are a festive appetizer featuring lean ground pork and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 32 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Pork 90-95% lean
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free if desired
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can substitute fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion is a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Whole Cranberry Sauce Jellied can be substituted
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Tamari can be used for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup can be replaced
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Can omit for thinner sauce

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick Cranberry Meatballs
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the lean ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, scoop out a portion of the mixture, and shape it into medium-sized meatballs.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  5. In a skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
  6. Carefully add the baked meatballs to the sauce, stir to coat, and let simmer for five minutes.
  7. Serve on a warm platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgSugar: 2gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These meatballs can be made ahead, stored in the freezer, and reheated for a quick snack anytime.

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