How to Make Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs sweet and spicy
Craving sweet and spicy party food? These Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs deliver bold flavor in every bite. Try the easy crockpot recipe today.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend – The fat content ensures juicy, tender meatballs
- ½ lb ground pork – Adds richness and prevents dryness
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates the perfect texture
- ¼ cup finely diced yellow onion – Provides aromatic base
- 3 cloves garlic minced – Essential for flavor depth
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances all flavors
- ½ tsp black pepper – Adds subtle heat
- 1 cup fresh cranberries – The star ingredient for tartness
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos seeded and minced – Adjustable heat level
- ½ cup brown sugar – Balances the tartness
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: This gives it brightness and acidity.Make
- ¼ cup water – Helps create the sauce consistency
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated – Adds warmth and complexity
Instructions
- ✅ Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture (5 minutes)▪ In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper using your hands or a fork▪ Mix just until ingredients are incorporated – overmixing creates dense, tough cranberry jalapeno meatballs▪ The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be compacted▪ Pro Tip: Wet your hands with cold water when handling the mixture to prevent sticking and ensure smooth rolling✅ Step 2: Form the Meatballs (8 minutes)▪ Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (approximately 24 pieces)▪ Roll each portion between your palms with gentle pressure to create uniform spheres▪ sure the formed meatballs don’t touch when you place them on a platter coated with paper.▪ Visual Aid Tip: Consistent sizing ensures even cooking – aim for golf ball-sized portions▪ Time-Saver: Form all meatballs before starting to cook for efficient workflow✅ Step 3: Create the Cranberry Jalapeño Sauce (7 minutes)▪ Combine fresh cranberries, minced jalapeños, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and grated ginger in a medium saucepan ▪ Bring mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally▪ Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until cranberries pop and release their juices▪ Stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve a glossy, thick consistency✅ Step 4: Cook the Meatballs (10 minutes)▪ Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering▪ Gently drop the meatballs into the heated oil, allowing space between them.For equal caramelization, brown the meatballs on both sides, rotating them every two to three minutes (8–10 minutes total).▪ Crucial Step: To maintain the right heat, avoid packing the pan too full and cook in two batches if needed.Cover the browned meatballs▪ Temperature Check: Internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety✅ Step 5: Combine and Finish (5 minutes)▪ Pour the prepared cranberry jalapeno sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet▪ Reduce heat to medium-low and gently simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld▪ Using a large spoon, carefully toss to coat all cranberry jalapeno meatballs evenly with the glossy sauce▪ Final Touch: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions before serving
Notes
Per Serving (4 meatballs with sauce):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 420 mg