Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs are the perfect party appetizer with tons of flavor! Sweet, spicy, tangy, and delicious!

cranberry sauce meatballs with jalapeno on a plate

Cranberry Jalapeño Meatballs Recipe

If you are looking for a new meatball recipe that is perfect for your next holiday party, you are going to love these. Hearty ground beef meatballs in a sweet and spicy cranberry sauce.

They are going to be your new favorite way to enjoy a classic appetizer!

Not only are they are great party food, but they pair with so many things they can make the perfect side dish too. Imagine the savory meatball with it’s sweet glaze and a slight jalapeno kick!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure policy here.
ingredients for cranberry meatballs

Ingredients Needed

Meatballs – Use frozen cooked meatballs or substitute homemade meatballs.

Chili sauce – Found near the ketchup in the store. Or substitute a plain BBQ sauce.

Cranberry sauce – I use canned jellied cranberry sauce or sub your own homemade cranberry sauce.

Honey – For sweetness. Substitute light brown sugar if needed.

Jalapeno peppers – Fresh are best. Keep the seeds and ribs when adding.

​Kitchen staples – Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder.

For more insider tips & tricks, and a candid behind the scenes look follow me on social media! Check use out on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter (yes, people still use Twitter, LOL!)

How to Make Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs

First: Place all the sauce ingredients in a slow cooker. Stir to combine. Turn on high and let sauce ingredients melt together for 20 minutes or so.

Second: Add in meatballs and stir to coat.

Third: Cook on low 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours or until warmed through.

Fourth: Turn to warm setting and serve.

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

crock pot cranberry meatballs in a white bowl

Serving Suggestions

These cocktail meatballs are one of my favorite appetizers. Just place a cup of toothpicks next to the crockpot. But they also make a delicious meal.

Serve them on top of some white rice, or mashed potatoes, along with a green salad and steamed green beans.

Just imagine them soaking up all this delicious sauce!

cranberry jalapeno meatballs make a delicious side dish.

Can I make the meatballs homemade?

I like that this recipe uses frozen meatballs, as it makes the prep so much easier. But you can certainly make your own meatballs from scratch.

Check out my homemade meatballs recipe.

How long do they last?

The cranberry sauce meatballs will last in the slow cooker on the low heat setting during your gathering.

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave until warmed through.

collage of party meatballs

More Crockpot Meatball Recipes

I have quite a few more meatball recipes. Check out the whole list!

plate of meatballs with wooden forks

Tapas Tips & Tricks

  • Use pre cooked meatballs for the slow cooker.
  • I like the jellied cranberry sauce but you can use the whole berry cranberry sauce too.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice, basmati rice, or mashed potatoes.
  • Great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce from your holiday meal.
  • Want more veggies? Toss in some diced bell peppers.
  • Want more spice? Try adding some hot pepper jelly!

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review in the comment section below (or on Pinterest with the “tried it” button – you can now add pictures into reviews, too!), and be sure to help me share on facebook!

wood spoon with three meatballs on it

Spicy Cranberry Meatballs are a fun and delicious party appetizer. The sweet and savory flavors are perfect for any time of year!

cranberry jalapeno meatballs in a crockpot

Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs are the perfect party appetizer with tons of flavor! Sweet, spicy, tangy, and delicious!
Rate me!
Print Pin Rate
Course: Best Cocktail Meatballs
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 20 servings
Calories: 228kcal
Author: Jennifer Stewart

Ingredients

  • 48 ounces frozen meatballs
  • 1 12 oz jar chili sauce
  • 2 14 oz cans jellied cranberry sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 large jalapeno peppers diced with seeds and ribs.

Instructions

  • Place all the sauce ingredients in a slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  • Add in meatballs and stir to coat.
  • Cook on low 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours or until warmed through.
  • Turn to warm and serve.

Notes

  • Use pre cooked meatballs for the slow cooker.
  • I like the jellied cranberry sauce but you can use the whole berry cranberry sauce too.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice, basmati rice, or mashed potatoes.
  • Great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce from your holiday meal.
  • Want more veggies? Toss in some diced bell peppers.
  • Want more spice? Try adding some hot pepper jelly!

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 468mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g

©TakeTwoTapas.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating