I love how easy and versatile this recipe is. I can use frozen or homemade meatballs, and the glaze comes together with just three pantry staples. The cranberry and orange combo is both classic and refreshing, and the soy sauce adds just enough umami to balance the sweetness. It’s a simple dish that feels festive and looks beautiful on any appetizer table.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I start by combining the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
I stir until everything is melted and smooth, forming a thick and glossy glaze.
Then I add the meatballs—if I’m using frozen, I make sure they’re fully cooked before tossing them in.
I stir to coat all the meatballs evenly in the sauce, then simmer everything together for 10–15 minutes so the flavors can blend and the meatballs get nice and sticky.
I serve them warm, either straight from the pan with toothpicks or transferred to a slow cooker set to warm if I’m entertaining.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 appetizer servings, depending on the size of the meatballs. From start to finish, it takes about 20–25 minutes using pre-cooked meatballs. If I’m making homemade meatballs from scratch, I allow an extra 30 minutes for prep and baking.
Variations
Sometimes I spice it up by adding a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a sweet-heat balance. I’ve also added orange zest for extra brightness or a dash of garlic powder for depth. For a cocktail-style twist, I skewer the meatballs and drizzle the glaze over them just before serving.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If I need to reheat a big batch, I toss them in a slow cooker with a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I often make the meatballs and sauce a day ahead. I reheat everything gently on the stove or in a slow cooker just before serving.
Can I use cocktail-size meatballs?
Absolutely. I love using smaller meatballs for bite-sized portions—perfect for parties and easier for guests to pick up with toothpicks.
Can I freeze cranberry orange meatballs?
Yes, I freeze them in the sauce and reheat them in a skillet or slow cooker. They taste just as good as freshly made.
What kind of meatballs work best?
I’ve used beef, turkey, and even plant-based meatballs. They all work well since the sauce is so flavorful.
Can I use jellied cranberry sauce instead?
Yes, though I prefer whole berry for the texture. If I use jellied cranberry sauce, I sometimes add a few dried cranberries to mimic the chunkier consistency.
Conclusion
These Holiday Cranberry Orange Meatballs are one of my favorite festive recipes. They’re quick, flavorful, and always a hit with guests. Whether I’m serving them as a party appetizer or a fun holiday dinner side, they never disappoint. I love how they bring bold seasonal flavor with minimal effort—exactly what I need during the busy holiday season.
Sweet, tangy, and perfectly glazed—these festive meatballs are a must-have appetizer for your holiday parties or Christmas dinner spread.
Author:Sarah
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes (or 2–4 hours slow cooker)
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Appetizer, Holiday
Method:Stovetop or Slow Cooker
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
1½ lbs frozen or homemade meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1/2 cup orange marmalade
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Glaze:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce. Stir until melted and combined into a smooth glaze (about 5 minutes).
Add Meatballs:
Add frozen (or fully cooked homemade) meatballs to the saucepan or a slow cooker.
Simmer:
Simmer on the stovetop for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are heated through and coated.
OR
Cook in a slow cooker on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5–2 hours.
Serve:
Serve warm with cocktail picks or toothpicks. Garnish with chopped parsley or orange zest for a festive touch, if desired.
Notes
Use turkey meatballs for a lighter holiday option.
Add a splash of orange juice for a more citrus-forward flavor.
Keep warm in a slow cooker for serving at parties.
