Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs are tangy, sweet, and smoky. These delightful meatballs serve as an easy holiday appetizer or a comforting weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy. Imagine a platter filled with beautifully cooked meatballs, glistening under a sweet cranberry glaze, ready to impress your guests or family. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

This recipe is not only delicious but provides numerous benefits. First, it’s perfect for gatherings and parties, making it an ideal party appetizer: Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs. Second, the use of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks. Additionally, these meatballs are gluten-free, making them suitable for various diets. You’ll also appreciate the tangy-sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory meat, making it an unforgettable dish. Plus, they are a healthy option, packed with protein and low in carbs, fitting well into a Healthy Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs diet.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

Gather these items:

2 pounds lean ground turkey
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
½ cup onions (finely grated)
½ cup parsley (finely chopped)
2 eggs
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
14 ounces cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
12 ounces Heinz chili sauce (substitute BBQ sauce)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix all the meatball ingredients until just combined.
Step 3: Roll small 1.5-inch meatballs and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake meatballs for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked through as they will continue to cook in the crockpot. Transfer the browned meatballs into the crockpot.
Step 5: In a bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce ingredients. Pour over the meatballs.
Step 6: Cover and cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, until the meatballs reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
Don’t skip browning the meatballs first for extra flavor.
Make sure to use quality cranberry sauce for a better glaze.
Consider substituting BBQ sauce for a twist on flavor.
For more flavor, let the meatballs sit in the sauce overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Serve as a Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs appetizer during parties with toothpicks for easy eating.
Pair with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
Offer alongside a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the meatballs.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

To store leftovers, allow the meatballs to cool and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours or heat them in the microwave until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors. Ensure that the meatballs are seasoned well, and don’t skip browning them first for added depth. The sweet-tangy cranberry glaze enhances the overall flavor, making them truly special.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance, store them uncooked in the refrigerator, and then simply cook them in the slow cooker when you’re ready. This makes it an excellent choice for gatherings!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcrowd the slow cooker. Give the meatballs enough space to cook evenly. Additionally, monitor the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.

Variations of Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Use ground beef or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add crushed pineapple for a tropical twist to the sauce.
Try adding spices like cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs: 5 Secrets to Perfection

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 270 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These slow cooker cranberry meatballs are tangy, sweet, and smoky. They are an easy holiday appetizer or weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds lean ground turkey
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
½ cup onions (finely grated)
½ cup parsley (finely chopped)
2 eggs
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
14 ounces cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
12 ounces Heinz chili sauce (substitute BBQ sauce)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the meatball ingredients until just combined.
Roll small 1.5-inch meatballs and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake meatballs for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned. You may need to add more time for larger meatballs. If you are adding them to the crockpot immediately, they don’t need to be fully cooked through, and will continue to cook in the crockpot. Transfer the browned meatballs into the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce ingredients. Pour over the meatballs.
Cover and cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, until the meatballs reach a minimal internal temperature of 145°F.