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Cranberry Chili Meatballs

Name: Cranberry Chili Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground beef; 0.75 cup plain bread crumbs; 1 large egg; 2.5 teaspoons chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5-1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 14 oz can whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce; 12 oz bottle Heinz chili sauce; 0.75 cup packed brown sugar

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines comfort with a twist of the unexpected. Cranberry Chili Meatballs are a perfect embodiment of this concept: tender meatballs enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce that transforms any meal into a celebration. Whether you are serving them at a holiday gathering, a casual dinner party, or simply for a cozy night in, these meatballs promise a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why Make This Recipe

Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of tangy cranberry sauce and zesty chili creates a taste sensation that’s both sweet and savory.
Simplicity: These meatballs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs can adapt to any dining occasion.

If you want to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that balances simplicity with a burst of flavors, these Cranberry Chili Meatballs will amaze your taste buds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cranberry Chili Meatballs

Creating the perfect batch of Cranberry Chili Meatballs is both a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you will have a delicious meal or appetizer ready in no time.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

1.5 lbs ground beef
0.75 cup plain bread crumbs
1 large egg
2.5 teaspoons chili powder
0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.5-1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
14 oz can whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce
12 oz bottle Heinz chili sauce
0.75 cup packed brown sugar

Prepare Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, 2 teaspoons chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. It’s ideal to use clean hands for this step, gently mixing all ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing. This will ensure your meatballs remain tender and juicy.

Form Meatballs

Using a small cookie scoop or simply rolling between your palms, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch diameter meatballs. This size ensures even cooking, and placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet makes for easy cleanup later on.

Prepare Cranberry Chili Sauce

Now, let’s move on to that delightful sauce. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the can of cranberry sauce, the bottle of Heinz chili sauce, ¾ cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Place the saucepan over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer, and stir occasionally. Allow it to cook for about 10–15 minutes, which will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. Don’t forget to taste it as you go along to adjust the sweetness or heat to your preference.

Initial Bake (Oven Method)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Depending on your preferences, you can either lightly grease a large baking dish (9×13 inch) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Place the formed meatballs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and mostly cooked through.

Saucy Bake

Once the initial bake is complete, carefully remove the meatballs from the oven. Pour that luscious cranberry chili sauce over them, ensuring that each meatball gets a generous coating. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked through, checking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and ensuring that the sauce is bubbly and hot.

Serve and Garnish

When cooked to perfection, give the meatballs a final stir to coat them in the sauce. Transfer them to a serving platter or bowl, and for a flair of freshness, garnish generously with chopped parsley or cilantro, adding optional sesame seeds for texture and visual appeal. Serve them hot, perfect as an appetizer with toothpicks, or as a main course over rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or nestled against slider buns.

Keeping Cranberry Chili Meatballs Fresh

At the end of a delightful meal, you might find yourself with some leftovers—or perhaps you intentionally made a big batch to enjoy later. Here’s how to keep your Cranberry Chili Meatballs fresh for future cravings:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag for optimal freshness.

Serving Ideas for Cranberry Chili Meatballs

When it comes to serving these meatballs, their versatility makes them a winner on many fronts. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

As an Appetizer: Skewering them with toothpicks is a classic option for parties, making for easy grab-and-go bites.
Tasty Sliders: Slide them onto a small bun topped with a smear of cream cheese or coleslaw for a delectable mini sandwich.
Over Rice or Noodles: They transform simple sides into festive meals. Pair them with fluffy rice or a bed of noodles, completing the dish with a drizzle of the leftover sauce.
On a Salad: For a lighter mai, serve them over a bed of mixed greens with a vinaigrette for a tangy contrast to the richness of the meatballs.

Tips to Make Cranberry Chili Meatballs

Success in the kitchen often hinges on a few small tips and tricks. Here are some pointers for ensuring your Cranberry Chili Meatballs are absolutely drool-worthy:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor dramatically, providing that extra zing.
Don’t Overmix: It’s crucial to mix just until combined, which helps keep your meatballs tender.
Sauce Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with the sauce. Adding a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice can take your dish to the next level.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe to fit different tastes or dietary needs, here are a few suggestions:

Meat Choices: Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you are after a leaner protein option. Adjust the seasoning to balance the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or use crushed gluten-free crackers to achieve the same binding effect.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form them ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator for one day before cooking them. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground chicken is an excellent alternative to ground beef for a lighter option. Just ensure to keep an eye on cooking times, as they might differ.

Q: How do I make these spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper or adding some finely chopped jalapeños into the meatball mixture.
Additionally, using a spicy chili sauce can elevate the heat level.

Cranberry Chili Meatballs are more than just a meal; they are an experience. With a burst of sweetness laced with heat, they bring comfort and satisfaction to the table in every bite. Enjoy them as they fit into your occasions, adding a twist to your usual fare. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, casual dinner, or just a moment of indulgence for yourself, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Recreating this dish not only delights the palate but also infuses your kitchen with the comforting aromas of home cooking. Dive in and enjoy the culinary journey!