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Cranberry BBQ Beef Meatballs

A delightful combination of beef and sweet-tart flavors, these slow-cooked meatballs are the perfect comfort food for family gatherings and chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 125
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatball Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use 80% lean for best results.
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce Adds sweetness and tanginess.
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Provides a smoky flavor.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Binds the meatballs together.
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion Can substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 large egg Helps hold the meatballs together.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Season generously for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed without overworking the meat.
  2. Once the mixture is combined, take a small amount and roll it into a meatball shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Aim for bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
  3. Arrange the meatballs in your slow cooker in a single layer. You can stack them if necessary, but layering too much may affect cooking time.
  4. Pour any remaining cranberry sauce and BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they're all coated well.
Cooking
  1. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  2. Once they are cooked through, serve the meatballs warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or with your choice of sides.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.