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Jalapeno Cranberry Meatballs Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

These Jalapeno Cranberry Meatballs offer a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or a comforting meal when served over rice or mashed potatoes. Made with fully cooked meatballs simmered in a tangy cranberry and jalapeño sauce, this recipe is quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 24 oz meatballs (1 bag fully cooked)

Sauce

  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
  • 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, depending on tartness of cranberry sauce)
  • ¼ cup water (to thin the sauce if needed)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce, chopped jalapeños, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, and water. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  2. Cook the sauce: Allow the mixture to cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes bubbly and smooth in texture.
  3. Add the meatballs: Place frozen or thawed fully cooked meatballs directly into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
  4. Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the meatballs simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and flavors meld.
  5. Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or extra jalapeño slices if desired. Serve hot with toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.

Notes

  • Use pre-cooked meatballs to minimize cooking time and simplify the preparation process.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your preferred spice level.
  • The brown sugar is optional and can be added to balance the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.