Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Name: Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Meatballs; 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup finely diced onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; For the Cherry-Cranberry BBQ Sauce; 1/2 cup whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup cherry preserves or sweet cherry jam; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

Author: Lora

Published: December 4, 2025

Print Recipe

Introduction to Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with my Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs! As a busy mom, I know how hectic life can get, and finding a quick yet mouthwatering recipe is gold. These meatballs are a wonderful fusion of flavors, wrapped in sweet and tangy goodness that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Great for game-day parties or a cozy family dinner, they’re simple to make and sure to bring smiles all around. Let’s dive in and whip up these tasty morsels that perfectly balance ease and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

One bite of these Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, and you’ll be hooked! They’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet cherry and tart cranberry creates a flavorful explosion that’ll have your loved ones asking for seconds. Plus, they can serve as a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s versatile and delicious? You’ll be the star of the dinner table!

Ingredients for Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

To create these flavorful Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs, you’ll need a blend of simple yet impactful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

Ground chicken: A lean meat alternative that keeps these meatballs light and juicy, perfect for family-friendly meals.
Breadcrumbs: This helps bind the meatballs together while adding a lovely texture.
Egg: Acts as a binding agent, keeping those delicious meatballs from falling apart.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavor, giving them that homemade touch.
Onion: Finely diced onion adds sweetness and depth, complementing the other flavors beautifully.
Fresh parsley: It brightens the mixture and adds a pop of color.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Smoked paprika: This adds a touch of smokiness, elevating your meatballs into something truly special.
Cranberry sauce: You can use whole berry or jellied, but it brings a delicious tanginess to the BBQ sauce.
Cherry preserves: Sweet cherry preserves contribute a luscious sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberry.
Ketchup: The base of the BBQ sauce, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten the sauce and enhance the flavors.
Brown sugar: This adds depth and sweetness, marrying the tart and sweet elements perfectly.
Worcestershire sauce: A savory addition that deepens the flavor profile of the BBQ sauce.
Dijon mustard: This brings a subtle tang that complements the sweetness.
Garlic powder: More garlic flavor without the fresh hassle.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like it spicy, a little kick can elevate the dish!

Of course, if you have any dietary preferences or restrictions, feel free to substitute the ingredients as needed. For more specific measurements, check out the details at the bottom of the article—they’re also printable for your kitchen convenience!

How to Make Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This will help prevent those savory meatballs from sticking, making cleanup a breeze later!

Step 2: Form the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, and seasonings. Toss everything together gently. You just want to mix until combined—over-mixing can make your meatballs tough, and we want them tender and juicy!

Step 3: Shape and Arrange Meatballs

Now, with slightly damp hands (this keeps the mixture from sticking to you), shape the meat mixture into 24 uniform meatballs. Place these gems on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space between them. This helps them cook evenly and get a lovely golden brown outside.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Slide that baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 20 minutes. You want the meatballs to be fully cooked with a light golden exterior. If you have a meat thermometer, check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 5: Prepare the Cherry-Cranberry BBQ Sauce

While those delicious meatballs are baking, it’s time to whip up that luscious cherry-cranberry BBQ sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, cherry preserves, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir it all together until smooth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to bubble and thicken for about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 6: Coat and Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

Carefully transfer your baked meatballs into the pot with the cherry-cranberry BBQ sauce. This is where the magic happens! Gently toss the meatballs to ensure each one gets a coat of that yummy sauce. Let them simmer together for an extra 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Serve

Finally, it’s time to serve up those delightful Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs! You can garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main dish, I guarantee they’ll be a hit!

Tips for Success

Keep your hands damp when shaping meatballs to prevent sticking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are cooked through.
Experiment with spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper to taste.
Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for busy days.
Feel free to customize the sauce with additional herbs or spices!

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A regular baking sheet will do, or you can use a cast-iron skillet for a different texture.
Parchment paper: If you don’t have this, light greasing with cooking spray works just as well.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will suffice for mixing the meatball ingredients.
Medium saucepan: A non-stick saucepan is ideal for making the BBQ sauce.
Meat thermometer: This ensures perfectly cooked meatballs, but you can also cut one open to check!

Variations

Turkey Meatballs: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner option that still packs a punch!
Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or chickpeas blended with breadcrumbs as a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian take.
Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to keep this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive folks.
Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh thyme or basil to elevate the flavor profile further.
Fruity Twist: Try using apricot preserves alongside the cherry for a unique flavor kick!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with toothpicks for a fun appetizer at parties or game days.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance.
Roasted vegetables make a colorful side that complements the meatballs.
A glass of sweet iced tea or sparkling lemonade pairs wonderfully.
Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color on the plate!

FAQs about Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Can I make Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready, just heat them in the sauce over low heat until warmed through.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in freezer bags for up to three months.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment! Ground turkey or even lean beef works well. Each will bring a unique flavor to the Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs while keeping that delightful essence.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs shine as an appetizer or a main dish. They’re delicious alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Pair them with a glass of sweet iced tea for a complete meal.

How spicy are these meatballs?

The spice level can be adjusted! The cayenne pepper is optional, so feel free to omit it for milder meatballs. You can also add more spice if you’re adventurous, making them as fiery as you like!

Final Thoughts

Creating Cherry-Coded Cranberry BBQ Meatballs has been a true delight and an enjoyable journey in my kitchen. The unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors brings joy to the table, making every meal feel special. This recipe not only caters to busy schedules but also impresses guests with its vibrant taste. Watching my family dive into these delightful meatballs and hearing their compliments makes it all worthwhile. I hope you experience the same joy as you share these delicious bites with your loved ones. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cherished moments around the dinner table!