Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs

Name: Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped onion; 1/4 cup parsley; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the delicious combination of sweet and savory with these Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, these tender meatballs are simmered in a rich cranberry barbecue sauce that brings a burst of flavor to each bite. Effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker, they make a fantastic appetizer or main course that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-13T11:57:43.690Z

These meatballs are a hit at any gathering, infusing a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meat perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to prepare in a slow cooker
Perfect for gatherings and parties
Rich and flavorful sauce

      

Delicious and Versatile

These Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that appeals to a variety of palates. The sweet-tart profile of cranberry sauce perfectly complements the smoky richness of barbecue sauce, creating a taste experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether served as a party appetizer, a festive centerpiece, or a hearty main course, these meatballs are effortlessly versatile and crowd-pleasing.

The dish not only offers delicious flavors but also provides flexibility in serving options. Pair them with toothpicks for a bite-sized appetizer, or serve over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a fulfilling meal. The versatility makes them suitable for holiday feasts, casual gatherings, or even cozy family dinners, ensuring a perfect fit for any occasion.

Effortless Slow Cooking

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. The slow cooker does the bulk of the work, allowing you to prepare ingredients in advance and let them simmer while you focus on hosting or simply relaxing at home. This hands-off cooking method means meatballs will come out tender and juicy every time, as the low and slow process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Additionally, using a slow cooker is incredibly convenient. You can toss in the meatballs and sauce in the morning, set the timer, and come home to a ready-to-eat delish meal. This is especially valuable for busy weeknights or during the hustle of holiday preparations, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maximize flavor without the fuss.

Healthier Indulgence

While these meatballs are undeniably rich in flavor, they can also fit into a healthy lifestyle. By using lean ground beef and incorporating fresh ingredients like onions and parsley, you can create a more nutritious dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. If you're looking to make them even lighter, consider substituting turkey or chicken for the beef.

Moreover, the homemade sauce can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Opt for low-sugar cranberry and BBQ sauces, and control the level of sweetness to maintain a balanced dietary profile. This way, you can indulge in these scrumptious meatballs while keeping your health goals in mind.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious meatballs:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

1 cup cranberry sauce
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Mix all the ingredients well.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your meatballs:

Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the meatballs in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through.

Once cooked, serve warm and enjoy your flavorful meatballs!

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs hold their shape during cooking, be sure not to overmix the meat mixture. A gentle fold is enough to combine the ingredients without toughening the meat. Additionally, forming uniform-sized meatballs helps them cook evenly, ensuring all bites are consistently delicious.

If you’d like to add extra flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or paprika into the meatball mixture. For even more depth, a dash of hot sauce can be combined with the BBQ sauce to create a pleasant kick that enhances the overall dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, garnish your meatballs with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aroma. Pairing these meatballs with a side of crusty bread or a light salad can balance the rich flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

If you have leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can easily be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks that are both delicious and satisfying.

Storage and Freezing

These Cranberry BBQ Crockpot Meatballs are excellent for meal prep! If you plan to make a large batch, consider storing individual servings in airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy them even on the busiest days.

When freezing, make sure the meatballs are cooled completely before transferring them to freezer-safe bags. Label and date each bag to keep track of your supplies. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them in the slow cooker or microwave until heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.