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Plate of homemade cranberry meatballs garnished with fresh herbs

Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs

A cozy and easy recipe for meatballs coated in a sweet-tangy cranberry-orange glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs frozen or homemade meatballs Using homemade meatballs adds extra depth.
  • 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce Provides the base for the glaze.
  • 0.5 cup orange marmalade Adds real citrus texture.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 whole orange (zest for garnish) Fresh zest brightens the finish.
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the whole berry cranberry sauce and orange marmalade. Stir gently until they melt and start to glide together.
  2. Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir well and adjust for salt or tang as needed.
  3. Add the frozen or homemade meatballs to the pan and toss them in the sauce until each one is coated.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles at the edges.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and become syrupy.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with orange zest and chopped parsley. Serve hot as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes.

Notes

This recipe is forgiving and quick. If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a tablespoon of water at a time until it loosens. For a smoother glaze, smash a few berries with the back of a spoon while it simmers. Optional: Add 1/2 tsp ground ginger for a warm spice flavor.