If you are looking for a dish that tastes like Christmas cheer in every bite, these Cranberry Orange Meatballs are it. Sweet, tangy, and perfectly savory, they’re one of my favorite Amazing Christmas Appetizers to bring to gatherings. You can make them ahead, keep them warm in a slow cooker, and watch them disappear from the table faster than you can say “Merry Christmas.”
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They’re easy to make and use simple pantry ingredients.
- The cranberry-orange glaze gives a bright holiday flavor that feels fancy without the effort.
- Perfect for potlucks, parties, or when you need a last-minute Christmas Eve Appetizers Easy recipe.
- They make a beautiful addition to any Christmas Appetizer Spread or buffet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef or turkey: The hearty base of the meatballs that holds up well to the tangy sauce.
- Breadcrumbs and egg: Help keep the meatballs tender and perfectly shaped.
- Garlic and onion powder: Add savory depth to balance the sweetness.
- Cranberry sauce: The star ingredient that brings a classic holiday touch.
- Orange zest and juice: Add brightness and lift to every bite.
- Brown sugar and soy sauce: Create a glossy glaze that’s both sweet and savory.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 3
Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until cooked through.
Step 4
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5
Add baked meatballs to the sauce and toss to coat. Let them simmer for another 5 minutes to soak in that glossy, tangy sweetness.
Helpful Tips & Variations
- If you want a lighter version, try using ground turkey or chicken.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Keep them warm in a slow cooker on low if serving as part of a Warm Christmas Appetizers buffet.
- These make great Unique Christmas Appetizers when served in mini cups with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Serving & Storage
Serve these meatballs hot as part of a Christmas Savory Food spread, with other favorites like pretzel bites and spinach pinwheels. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a cozy dinner option when you’re thinking of Christmas Eve Easy Dinner Ideas.
Cranberry Orange Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice, zest, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add cooked meatballs to the sauce. Stir to coat and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Notes
- To keep warm, transfer to a slow cooker set on low.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze them (sauce and all) for up to 2 months for a quick reheat on busy nights or when planning Christmas Day Snacks Holiday Appetizers.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs up to two days in advance. Store them in the fridge and warm them in the cranberry orange glaze right before serving for fresh flavor and texture. This makes holiday hosting so much easier when preparing for Decorative Christmas Appetizers.
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
Absolutely. Use your favorite store-bought meatballs to save time. Just simmer them directly in the sauce until heated through. It’s a great shortcut when juggling other Christmas Eve Appetizers Easy recipes.
What can I serve these with?
They pair beautifully with cheesy pinwheels, sliders, or pretzel bites. You can find more serving inspiration in my post on Top 5 Christmas Appetizers for 2025.
How do I make the sauce less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar or add a splash more soy sauce or lemon juice to balance the flavors. The goal is a glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully and works well for big family gatherings or potlucks. Just make sure to use a large saucepan or slow cooker to keep everything warm and coated evenly for your next Christmas Appetizer Spread.
Final Thoughts from Ama
These Cranberry Orange Meatballs are a little sweet, a little savory, and completely crowd-pleasing. I love making them when the house smells like pine and carols play softly in the background. They remind me that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be special. Whether you serve them for a cozy dinner or as part of your festive Christmas Appetizer Spread, they’ll bring warmth to your table and smiles to your guests.
Simple food, big heart.