Name: Cranberry Meatballs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 26 ounces frozen bite-size turkey meatballs; 14 ounces whole cranberry sauce (or substitute with grape jelly); 12 ounces Heinz Chili Sauce; 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 ½ tablespoons dark brown sugar; Optional garnish: chopped green onions

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Cranberry Meatballs are the ultimate party appetizer—sweet, tangy, savory, and completely addictive. Made with frozen turkey meatballs and a simple homemade cranberry-chili sauce, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, and potlucks. Just toss everything into the crockpot, let it simmer, and get ready for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are not only quick and convenient but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of whole cranberry sauce and chili sauce creates a tangy-sweet glaze that clings to every bite. Minimal prep and just five ingredients make this a low-effort, high-reward appetizer. Plus, you can keep them warm right in the slow cooker, making them ideal for entertaining.

Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen bite-size turkey meatballs
whole cranberry sauce (or substitute grape jelly)
Heinz chili sauce
Worcestershire sauce
dark brown sugar

Directions

Place the frozen turkey meatballs into a slow cooker set to low.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar until smooth and combined.
Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to coat the meatballs evenly.
Once cooked, set the slow cooker to warm for serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Grape jelly version: Substitute cranberry sauce with grape jelly for a classic cocktail meatball flavor.
Spicy twist: Add 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Homemade meatballs: Use your favorite homemade turkey or beef meatball recipe in place of frozen. Cook until fully done before adding sauce.
Beef or chicken: Use frozen beef or chicken meatballs if you prefer.
Orange zest: Add ½ teaspoon orange zest to the sauce for a citrusy note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Let meatballs cool completely, then freeze in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the slow cooker on low until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or homemade meatballs?

Yes, just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot with the sauce.

Can I use grape jelly instead of cranberry sauce?

Absolutely. Grape jelly creates a slightly sweeter sauce, which is a popular alternative.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild as written. For more heat, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store in the fridge, then reheat in the slow cooker before serving.

What kind of chili sauce should I use?

Use a classic chili sauce like Heinz, not spicy Asian chili sauces, as the flavor is meant to be tangy and sweet.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume.

Can I make these on the stovetop?

Yes, combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free meatballs and check that your sauces are certified gluten-free.

Can I keep them warm in the slow cooker for a party?

Yes, after cooking, set the slow cooker to “warm” and stir occasionally during the event.

What goes well with these meatballs?

Serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.

Conclusion

Cranberry Meatballs are a festive, flavor-packed appetizer that’s both effortless and impressive. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dish to bring to a party, these slow cooker meatballs deliver big taste with minimal prep. Sweet, savory, and endlessly snackable, they’re sure to be a favorite at your next gathering.