Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs

Name: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24.0
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your appetizer game with these Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs! These delightful bites are glazed in a tantalizing mix of cranberry sauce and zesty orange, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing treat that's as easy to make as it is delicious.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-13T15:16:00.191Z

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them the perfect addition to any gathering. Whether you are hosting a festive holiday party, a casual game day get-together, or an intimate dinner with friends, these meatballs will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. The combination of sweet cranberry and zesty orange flavors will excite the palate and create memorable taste experiences.

Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for serving as appetizers that can be easily enjoyed by guests. Just set them out on a platter with toothpicks or skewer them for an effortless serving option. Plus, they are quick to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.

Healthier Comfort Food

Cranberry orange meatballs provide a unique twist on traditional meatball recipes, giving you the comfort of classic flavors while introducing healthier options. By using lean ground beef and incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, you're adding nutrients without sacrificing taste. Plus, the use of cranberry sauce adds a natural sweetness and is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

These meatballs can also be made gluten-free by substituting breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, making them suitable for a wider range of dietary preferences. So, whether you're accommodating friends or family members with specific dietary needs or looking to enjoy a healthier dish, this recipe is a fantastic option.

Make Ahead and Store

One of the best things about these Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs is that they can be made in advance, saving you time and stress on the day of your event. Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

If you want to stash some away for later, cooked meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Simply allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freeze them in a freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven or in a sauce when you're ready to enjoy another round of deliciousness!

Ingredients

Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

1 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined then shape into small meatballs.

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, sriracha, and ginger. Stir until smooth and heated through.

Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish and pour the glaze over them. Toss gently to coat.

Serve

Serve warm and enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs!

Storage Tips

To keep your Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Orange Meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to three days. When reheating, consider warming them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra cranberry sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

For longer-term storage, transfer the cooled meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can typically be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the sweet and spicy flavors of these meatballs, consider serving them with a refreshing salad featuring a citrus vinaigrette. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad will beautifully balance the rich meatiness of the dish.

For a heartier meal, pair the meatballs with steamed rice or quinoa. The grains will absorb the tangy glaze, making every bite satisfying. Additionally, offer some crusty bread for soaking up any leftover sauce to ensure nothing goes to waste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the meatballs in advance. Just reheat them before serving with the glaze.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs go well with toothpicks for easy serving or on a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.