Looking for an appetizer that will make a splash at your next gathering? These cranberry jalapeno meatballs are exactly what you need. Sweet, spicy, and absolutely delicious, they’re the perfect starter for any party. As one of our readers so aptly put it: “These cranberry jalapeno meatballs were the star of my last dinner party. My guests couldn’t stop coming back for more!”
What makes this cranberry jalapeno meatballs recipe truly special is the striking contrast between the sweetness of cranberries and the heat of jalapenos. This bold combination creates a complex flavor profile that awakens the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression. Plus, the colorful presentation makes it a visually appealing addition to your buffet table.
Table of Contents
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
Ingredients Table
For the meatballs:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound (450g) |
| Ground pork | 1/2 pound (225g) |
| Plain dry breadcrumbs | 1 cup (120g) |
| Finely chopped jalapeno pepper | 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste) |
| Tomato-based chili sauce (like Heinz®) | 3 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
For the cranberry jalapeno sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomato-based chili sauce (like Heinz®) | 1 1/2 cups (350ml) |
| Cranberry jelly | 1 jar (340g) |
| Jalapeno jelly | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
How to Make Perfect Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs
- Prepare your oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick spray.
- Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped jalapeno, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Gently mix with your hands until the ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form the meatballs: With slightly moistened hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch (3 cm) in diameter. You should get approximately 36 meatballs. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Cook the meatballs: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are slightly browned on the outside.
- Prepare the cranberry jalapeno sauce: While the meatballs are cooking, combine the chili sauce, cranberry jelly, jalapeno jelly, lemon juice, brown sugar, and garlic salt in a large skillet. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the jellies have melted and the mixture begins to simmer gently. Reduce heat and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and glaze: When the meatballs are cooked, carefully transfer them to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat each meatball. Let them simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the glazed cranberry jalapeno meatballs to a warm serving dish or a slow cooker set to “warm” for serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Chef’s Tips for Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs
The beauty of this cranberry jalapeno meatballs recipe lies in its flexibility and practicality. Here are some tips to make the most of it:
Adjust the spice level: The heat level can be easily modified according to your preferences. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping. If you enjoy heat, keep them in or increase the amount of jalapenos.
Slow cooker option: These cranberry jalapeno meatballs are perfect for slow cooker preparation. Once baked in the oven, simply transfer them to your slow cooker with the sauce and keep warm throughout your event. They’ll remain delicious for hours.
Make ahead: You can prepare these meatballs in advance to make your party planning easier. Cook the meatballs, let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. On the day of serving, simply prepare the sauce and add the frozen meatballs. Let them simmer until completely warmed through.
No egg needed: Unlike many meatball recipes, this one doesn’t require an egg as a binder. The combination of breadcrumbs and sauces keeps the meatballs perfectly formed during cooking.
Nutritional Information for Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Potassium: 650mg
Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. If you follow a restrictive diet or have dietary concerns, consult your healthcare professional.
Reader Testimonials About Our Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs
“These cranberry jalapeno meatballs were a real hit at my holiday party. The contrast between the sweet cranberries and the spicy jalapenos is simply perfect!” – Mary C.
“I served these meatballs at a cocktail party and they disappeared in the blink of an eye. I even had to make another batch during the evening!” – Thomas L.
“This cranberry jalapeno meatballs recipe has become a staple in our family for gatherings. We adjust the spice level depending on who’s coming to dinner, but they’re always delicious.” – Sophie B.
Enjoy your meal!
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