Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs. Combining the classic flavors of a holiday meal into bite-sized meatballs, this dish is perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. The sweet and savory combination of cranberry sauce and stuffing mix makes these meatballs a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe and explore some variations to suit different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (turkey or beef)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 box stuffing mix (dry)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon each dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing Mix: In a large bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with the chicken or vegetable broth. Let it sit for a few minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the stuffing mix is moistened.
- Mix the Meatballs: In the same bowl, add the ground meat, beaten egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Sear the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear them on all sides until they are browned. This step helps to lock in the flavor and keep the meatballs intact. Transfer the seared meatballs to the slow cooker.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Pour the cranberry sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Meat Choice: Both ground turkey and beef work well for this recipe. Turkey gives a more traditional holiday flavor, while beef adds a richer taste.
- Stuffing Mix: Any flavor of stuffing mix can be used. For added flavor, consider using a herb-seasoned stuffing mix.
- Sauce Options: For a different flavor profile, you can use a combination of cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce.
Variations
Keto Version
To make this dish keto-friendly:
- Replace the stuffing mix with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Use a sugar-free cranberry sauce or make your own using fresh cranberries and a keto-friendly sweetener.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version:
- Use a low-carb stuffing mix or a combination of cauliflower rice and almond flour.
- Opt for a low-sugar cranberry sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce? A: Yes, you can make a fresh cranberry sauce by cooking cranberries with a little water and a sweetener until they burst and form a sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the meatballs? A: Absolutely! You can add ingredients like grated carrots, chopped celery, or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart? A: Ensuring the stuffing mix is well-moistened and not too dry helps keep the meatballs together. Also, searing the meatballs before slow cooking helps them hold their shape.
These Slow Cooker Cranberry-Stuffing Meatballs are a festive and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the holiday season to your table. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy days and special occasions alike. Whether you stick to the classic version or try the keto and low-carb variations, these meatballs are sure to become a holiday favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
