The Recipe for the Ultimate Festive Appetizer: The Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

The holidays are defined by warmth, sparkling lights, and, most importantly, incredible food that brings everyone together. While Christmas dinner gets the spotlight, the appetizers the small bites of holiday cheer are the true unsung heroes of any festive gathering. If you are searching for a dish that is guaranteed to impress, simple to execute, and bursting with classic Christmas flavors, look no further than these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. This recipe elevates the standard party meatball from a simple snack to a sophisticated, flavor-forward holiday appetizer.

These aren’t your grandmother’s grape jelly meatballs (though we love those, too!). We are combining perfectly seasoned, juicy homemade meatballs baked to ideal tenderness with a glossy, tangy, and subtly spicy cranberry glaze. The sweetness of the whole berry cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with the savory meat and the slight kick of bottled chili sauce and fresh ginger. Whether you are hosting a formal Christmas Eve gathering, a casual New Year’s cocktail party, or just need the perfect football snack for a December afternoon, these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are the answer. They are easy to prepare ahead of time and keep warm effortlessly in a slow cooker, making your hosting duties wonderfully simple. Get ready to watch these festive bites disappear faster than Santa down the chimney!

Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for These Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

There are countless meatball recipes out there, so why dedicate your precious holiday prep time to this specific version? The secret lies in the masterful balance of textures and flavors, and the incredible ease of the cooking process. These aren’t just good appetizers; they are truly the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs you will ever make, offering a perfect blend of tradition and excitement.

The Perfect Blend of Sweet, Savory, and Spice (A True Holiday Appetizer)

The flavor profile of this recipe is meticulously engineered for the winter palate. The meatballs themselves are deeply savory. We use a combination of lean ground beef and ground pork (or Italian sausage) to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor depth. Ingredients like fresh garlic, onion, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce build a robust foundation. But the real showstopper is the cranberry glaze.

The whole berry cranberry sauce provides texture and tartness, which is immediately balanced by the rich, caramelized sweetness of brown sugar. The addition of bottled chili sauce (like Heinz or Sriracha chili sauce) is key. It doesn’t make the dish overly spicy, but rather adds a crucial layer of complexity a pleasant tang that cuts through the richness of the meat and the sweetness of the fruit. Furthermore, the fresh orange zest and ground ginger infuse the glaze with quintessential festive aromas, ensuring every bite reminds you of the holiday season.

Ease of Preparation and Make-Ahead Magic

Holiday hosting is stressful enough without last-minute culinary disasters. One of the greatest reasons to love these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs is their sheer convenience. Unlike many recipes that require frying in batches, we simplify the process by baking the meatballs. This method ensures uniform cooking, less mess, and healthier results. You can bake all 40-45 appetizers simultaneously on a single sheet pan.

Furthermore, this recipe is a dream for hosts who like to plan ahead. You can prepare and bake the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance, cool them, and store them in the refrigerator. The glaze can also be made ahead of time. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the baked meatballs and the reheated glaze in a slow cooker or saucepan and allow them to simmer for 15 minutes. The low-and-slow simmering step is crucial, as it allows the meatballs to fully absorb the glossy, sweet, and tangy cranberry glaze, deepening the flavor significantly. This make-ahead capability truly makes these the ideal holiday appetizer.

When the meatballs are ready, transfer them directly to a small slow cooker set to ‘Keep Warm.’ This ensures your guests get piping hot, moist, and perfectly glazed bites throughout the entire duration of your party. The convenience alone makes this recipe a yearly requirement for my Christmas Eve spread.

Why You Should Try This Festive Appetizer Now

If you need convincing beyond the incredible flavor, consider the tactical advantages these cranberry-glazed meatballs offer during the busy December months. These are more than just a dish; they are a tool for seamless entertaining, perfectly fitting the definition of an essential festive appetizer.

Crowd-Pleasing and Allergy-Friendly Versatility

Meatballs are universally loved, appealing to both adults and picky eaters alike. While fancy charcuterie boards require careful construction and delicate handling, these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are served simply with toothpicks, encouraging mingling and easy consumption. They are robust enough to stand up to heavy sauces and strong enough to be transported easily if you are attending a potluck.

They also pair wonderfully with other seasonal dishes. If you are planning your main course, consider serving these alongside a perfectly brined turkey or perhaps set them out next to a creamy, savory dip like the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for maximum holiday cheer. Their versatility is unmatched.

A Flavor Upgrade from Classic Meatballs

Many classic party meatballs rely on basic barbecue or grape jelly sauces. While nostalgic, these can sometimes be one-dimensional. Our cranberry glaze recipe provides a sophisticated twist. The use of apple cider vinegar and orange zest adds a brightness that prevents the sauce from becoming cloyingly sweet. This complexity is what elevates these from simple party snacks to gourmet appetizers.

The quality of your meatballs matters, too. By making them homemade, we control the seasoning and texture. Store-bought frozen meatballs often dry out or lack the proper seasoning blend. By using fresh parsley, dried thyme, and the recommended meat blend, we guarantee that the interior of your meatball is moist and packed with savory flavor, creating the perfect foundation for the vibrant glaze. When that homemade flavor meets the tart, spicy, and sweet glaze, you achieve the gold standard: the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs.

These festive bites are a surefire way to make a lasting impression on your guests and elevate your holiday menu without demanding hours of intensive labor. Try them this season; we guarantee they will become a new holiday tradition.

The Anatomy of the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs: Ingredients and Utensils

Success in making these definitive holiday appetizers starts with precise ingredients and the right tools. We’ve broken down every component to ensure you understand why each item is essential to achieving that perfect savory-sweet holiday flavor.

I. For the Meatballs (The Savory Foundation)

The composition of the meatball is critical for texture and moisture. We are aiming for tender, flavorful, and robust meatballs that can hold their shape while simmering in the thick cranberry glaze.

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 recommended): The beef provides the primary meaty flavor. The 85/15 fat ratio is ideal; it provides enough fat for moisture without making the meatballs greasy.
• 1/2 pound ground pork or Italian sausage (mild): This blend is key for deep, juicy flavor. Pork is naturally fattier and more tender than beef, yielding a softer meatball. If using Italian sausage, ensure it is mild, as the seasonings already present add a wonderful depth (fennel, pepper).
• 1/2 cup finely minced yellow onion: Onion adds moisture and flavor. Ensure it is very finely minced so it cooks down completely within the meatball without leaving large, crunchy pieces.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs) is superior here because it absorbs the liquid mixture effectively, yet retains a slightly lighter, airier structure than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a more tender meatball.
• 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%): The milk, combined with the breadcrumbs, creates a panade, which is the magic component that prevents the meatballs from drying out. The fat content in the milk also contributes to moisture.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: The binder. The egg helps hold the mixture together, preventing cracks or crumbling during baking and simmering.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds freshness and a hint of classic savory herb flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: The basic seasoning foundation. Always taste a small test patty before rolling all the meatballs if you are unsure of the salt level.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is a classic holiday herb that pairs beautifully with both beef and cranberry, lending a subtle aromatic note.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This fermented condiment adds deep, umami savory notes, enhancing the meat flavor significantly. It is a secret weapon in achieving perfectly seasoned Christmas meatballs.

II. For the Cranberry Glaze (The Festive Coating)

This glaze is the reason these are the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. It’s a powerhouse of festive flavors tart, sweet, tangy, and slightly warming.

• 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce: Make sure you use the whole berry version, not the jelly. The whole berries provide essential texture and a burst of tartness.
• 1 cup bottled chili sauce (such as Heinz or Sriracha chili sauce): This is non-negotiable for flavor balance. Despite the name, bottled chili sauce (often found near ketchup) is mild and sweet, offering a thick base and complex seasoning (garlic, vinegar, spices) that grape jelly cannot replicate. If you want more heat, opt for Sriracha chili sauce.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds deep molasses notes and thickens the sauce, creating that beautiful, sticky glaze finish.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: The acid is crucial for cutting through the sweetness and fat. It provides a necessary tanginess that brightens the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Cranberry and orange are a famous festive pairing. The zest adds volatile oils that impart a bright, aromatic holiday scent and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Ginger adds warmth and spice, tying into the cozy winter theme.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): Only include this if you want a noticeable, fiery kick. It elevates these party meatballs to a new level.

III. Recommended Tools and Utensils (Ensuring Recipe Success)

Having the right equipment streamlines the process and ensures consistent results for your festive appetizer.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Mixing Bowl: Necessary for mixing the meatball ingredients gently without overworking the meat.
• Standard Baking Sheet: Required for baking the meatballs.
• Parchment Paper: Crucial for lining the baking sheet. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless a must during the holidays!
• Medium Saucepan: Used exclusively for preparing and simmering the cranberry glaze.
• Rubber Spatula or Clean Hands: For mixing the meatball mixture. Using your hands is often best for ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
• Wire Whisk: For combining the wet ingredients for the glaze until smooth.
• Cookie Scoop (Optional but Recommended): A small cookie or ice cream scoop (about 1.5 inches in diameter) helps create uniform meatballs, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Meat Thermometer: The only way to guarantee the meatballs are safe and properly cooked (target 165°F / 74°C).
• Slow Cooker (Optional, for serving): Ideal for keeping the cranberry meatballs warm and perfectly coated for hours during the party.

Detailed Instructions: How to Create the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Follow these steps closely to achieve juicy, perfectly seasoned meatballs bathed in a sweet and spicy cranberry glaze. Prep time is only 25 minutes, making this a highly efficient festive appetizer recipe.

I. Preparing and Baking the Meatballs (The Foundation)

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps the meatballs set quickly and brown nicely. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation step is vital for easy handling and cleanup later.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients (Meatballs): In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the liquid and flavoring agents: the beaten egg, milk, finely minced onion, minced garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Use a whisk to ensure these ingredients are well-distributed.
3. Add Dry Ingredients & Soak: Pour the panko breadcrumbs into the liquid mixture. Give the panade about two minutes to soak up the milk and egg. This brief soak ensures the breadcrumbs fully hydrate, leading to a much more tender final product.
4. Mix the Meat: Now, add the ground beef and ground pork/sausage to the bowl. This is the most crucial step for texture. Using your hands or a rubber spatula, gently mix the ingredients until they are JUST combined. You should still see visible streaks of the two types of meat. Caution: Do not overmix. Overmixing develops the proteins in the meat, resulting in tough, dry, rubbery meatballs.
5. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, uniform balls, aiming for approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter (about the size of a walnut). Uniform size is key for even baking. Place the shaped meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is a small space between each one to allow air circulation. For more holiday appetizer inspiration, check out my Pinterest page for festive recipes.
6. Bake: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the meatballs for 18 to 22 minutes. They are done when they are fully cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The surface should be nicely browned. Remove them from the oven and set them aside.

II. Making the Cranberry Glaze (The Flavor Bomb)

While the festive meatballs are baking, you can prepare the gorgeous, sticky glaze that will define this dish.

7. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, bottled chili sauce, brown sugar (make sure to pack it down!), apple cider vinegar, fresh orange zest, ground ginger, and the optional red pepper flakes.
8. Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the mixture heats up. You need to bring the glaze to a gentle simmer, continuously stirring to ensure the brown sugar completely dissolves and doesn’t scorch the bottom of the pan.
9. Reduce Heat & Thicken: Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to continue simmering gently for 5 to 8 minutes. The goal here is to let the sauce thicken slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon with a glossy film. Tip: Taste the glaze here; if it’s too tart, add a touch more brown sugar. If it needs more brightness, add a squeeze of fresh orange juice.

III. Finishing and Serving the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

This final step allows the flavors to marry, transforming the baked meatball and the glaze into one cohesive, incredible holiday appetizer.

10. Combine Meatballs and Sauce (Stovetop Method): Carefully add the cooked, baked meatballs directly into the saucepan containing the warm cranberry glaze. Use a rubber spatula to stir gently, ensuring that every single meatball is fully coated in the glossy, sticky sauce.
11. Heat Through and Absorb Flavor: Continue to simmer the meatballs in the sauce over low heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering period is essential it allows the meatballs to fully absorb the complex cranberry, ginger, and chili flavors, making them incredibly moist and savory on the inside, and sticky and sweet on the outside.
12. Serve: Transfer the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs to a decorative serving dish. For larger parties or extended serving times, you can pour them into a slow cooker and set it to the “Keep Warm” setting for up to 3 hours. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few strands of fresh orange zest for a pop of color and aroma. Serve immediately with a generous supply of festive toothpicks! If you’re looking for another seasonal sweet treat, these meatballs pair wonderfully before trying the Christmas Thumbprint Cookies.

Tips, Variations, and Pro Secrets for Perfect Christmas Meatballs

While the recipe above provides the blueprint for success, a few professional tips and ingredient variations can tailor this holiday appetizer to any dietary need or preference, solidifying its place as the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs on your holiday table.

Avoiding Common Meatball Mistakes

• The Overmixing Problem: We cannot stress this enough overmixing the meat is the #1 cause of tough meatballs. Once the wet ingredients and breadcrumbs are soaked, the meat should be handled as little as possible. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients look barely incorporated.
• Preventing a Dry Meatball: Ensure you are using the correct amount of milk and panko. The panade (milk and breadcrumb mixture) is crucial. Also, always verify the internal temperature; cooking past 165°F (74°C) will dry them out unnecessarily before they even hit the glaze.
• Fixing a Thin Glaze: If, after 8 minutes of simmering, your glaze is still too runny, you can easily thicken it. Mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water (a slurry) and whisk it into the simmering sauce. Let it simmer for two minutes; the sauce will rapidly thicken.

Ingredient Alternatives and Dietary Swaps

You can easily adapt these festive appetizers without compromising the delicious cranberry-chili flavor:

Meat Variations (Lighter Options)

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer poultry, replace the ground beef and pork with 1.5 pounds of ground turkey or ground chicken (dark meat preferred for moisture). Since poultry is leaner, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or a dash of olive oil to the mix to prevent dryness.
• All Beef: If pork is restricted, use 1.5 pounds of 85/15 ground beef. The texture will be slightly firmer, but the flavor will still be robust.

Gluten-Free Version

To make the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs gluten-free, substitute the standard panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or, better yet, use 1/2 cup of ground almond flour. The almond flour helps bind and adds moisture while keeping the texture light. Ensure the Worcestershire sauce you use is certified gluten-free (some brands contain gluten). The rest of the glaze ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Vegan/Vegetarian Variation

It is entirely possible to create equally delicious savory-sweet plant-based cranberry appetizers:

• Base: Replace the meat with 1.5 pounds of firm tofu (pressed and crumbled) combined with 1/2 cup of cooked lentils or black beans, or use a high-quality store-bought plant-based ground “meat” substitute.
• Binders: Instead of egg, use flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, rested for 5 mins) or a commercially available egg replacer.
• Baking: Vegan meatballs may require a shorter baking time (around 15 minutes) or can be pan-fried until browned before simmering in the cranberry glaze.

Serving Ideas for Your Holiday Appetizer

While they are fantastic served straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks, consider these fun alternatives:

• Sliders: Serve larger meatballs inside small Hawaiian rolls or potato buns, topped with a dollop of leftover glaze and maybe a slice of creamy Swiss cheese.
• Over Rice: These meatballs make an easy, flavorful weeknight meal in December when served over a bed of fluffy white rice.
• Garnish Galore: For an elevated presentation, serve them sprinkled with finely chopped fresh rosemary (which smells wonderfully festive), toasted pecans, or small cubes of white cheddar cheese arranged artfully around the serving dish.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Cranberry Meatballs

When considering any recipe, especially a holiday appetizer, it’s helpful to understand the components and the nutritional benefits they bring to the table. While these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs are undeniably a treat designed for indulgence, the use of quality, lean ingredients and the natural benefits of cranberries make them a relatively wholesome party option.

Estimated Nutritional Overview (Per 3-4 Meatballs, without precise calculations):

Note: These values are estimations based on the use of lean ground beef (85/15) and ground pork. Actual values will vary based on exact ingredient proportions and the size of the meatballs.

The Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Lean Protein from Meat

The combination of ground beef and pork provides a complete protein source, essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. By opting for 85/15 ground beef, we keep the saturated fat content lower than traditional fattier blends. Lean protein helps guests feel satisfied, making these Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs a substantial appetizer that helps manage snacking throughout the evening.

The Power of Cranberries

Cranberries, the star of our festive glaze, are renowned for their health properties. While the sauce contains added sugar, the cranberries themselves offer significant benefits:

• Antioxidants: Cranberries are loaded with powerful antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Vitamins: They are a decent source of Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function, especially during the cold winter months.
• Fiber: Even in sauce form, the whole berry cranberry sauce provides some dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.

Aromatics and Spices

The addition of fresh garlic, ginger, and thyme contributes more than just flavor; they also carry health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting compounds, and ginger is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe digestion a welcome addition after a night of holiday feasting.

Serving these homemade Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs ensures you know exactly what is going into your food, guaranteeing a higher quality and fresher taste compared to processed store-bought options.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

We’ve gathered the most common questions about preparing, storing, and serving these delicious festive appetizers to ensure your holiday cooking is stress-free.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Holiday Tradition

The search for the ultimate holiday party snack officially ends here. These Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs deliver on every promise: they are incredibly flavorful, exceptionally easy to prepare, and perfectly suited for the cozy ambiance of the festive season. From the moist, savory blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned perfectly with garlic and thyme, to the dazzling, sticky glaze enriched with tart cranberries, warming ginger, and bright orange zest, this recipe is a true holiday masterpiece.

Remember the key steps to success: don’t overmix the meat, bake the meatballs for efficiency, and ensure you let them simmer in the glaze long enough to absorb all that amazing flavor. Their make-ahead capability and the option to serve them warm in a slow cooker liberate you from the kitchen, allowing you to actually enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Whether you’re planning a massive Christmas Eve buffet or just need a comforting appetizer for a small winter gathering, these cranberry-glazed festive appetizers will earn you rave reviews. Don’t let another holiday season pass without trying the Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs. Give this recipe a try, share your festive success stories in the comments below, and consider pairing them with another one of our decadent holiday recipes, like the Gooey Butter Cookies. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs (Sweet & Savory Appetizer)

These sweet and savory Cranberry Meatballs are the perfect festive holiday appetizer, featuring juicy baked beef and pork meatballs simmered in a tangy, spiced whole berry cranberry glaze.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Appetizer, Holiday

Cuisine American, Fusion

Servings 8 appetizer servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Large Baking Sheet
• Medium saucepan

Ingredients

  

I. For the Meatballs

• 1 pound lean ground beef 85/15 recommended
• 1/2 pound ground pork or Italian sausage Mild
• 1/2 cup yellow onion finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular dry breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk whole or 2%
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

II. For the Cranberry Glaze

• 1 14-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 cup bottled chili sauce such as Heinz or Sriracha chili sauce
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions

 

I. Preparing and Baking the Meatballs

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the egg, milk, minced onion, minced garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Whisk these wet ingredients together until just combined.
• Pour the panko breadcrumbs into the mixture and let them soak for about two minutes. Add the ground beef and ground pork/sausage to the bowl. Using your hands or a rubber spatula, gently mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Do not overmix, as this will result in tough meatballs.
• Roll the mixture into uniform balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter (about 40-45 meatballs). Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each one.
• Bake the meatballs for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove them from the oven and set aside.

II. Making the Cranberry Glaze

• While the meatballs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, orange zest, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to dissolve the brown sugar.
• Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 5 to 8 minutes. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon lightly.

III. Finishing and Serving

• Carefully add the fully cooked meatballs directly into the saucepan containing the cranberry glaze. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.
• Continue to simmer the meatballs in the sauce over low heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing them to absorb the festive flavors. Stir occasionally.
• Transfer the Cranberry Meatballs to a serving dish, or keep them warm in a slow cooker set to the “Keep Warm” setting. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or orange zest, and serve immediately with toothpicks.

Notes

For holiday potlucks, these meatballs hold beautifully in a slow cooker on the 'Keep Warm' setting for up to 3 hours. If the sauce becomes too thick while holding, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out. These meatballs can be prepared 1 day ahead, refrigerated, and reheated in the slow cooker with the glaze.

Keyword Christmas, cranberry, easy appetizer, Meatballs, party food, slow cooker