Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail Meatballs are the kind of appetizer that instantly elevates any gathering. With their sweet-tangy glaze, subtle bourbon warmth, and a hint of spice, these meatballs deliver bold, memorable flavor in every single bite. They’re easy to prepare, endlessly crowd-pleasing, and perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a dish that feels festive without the fuss.
The homemade meatballs are tender and juicy, seasoned simply so they can soak up the star of the recipe—the glossy cranberry-bourbon sauce. The sauce blends cranberry sweetness with smoky barbecue depth and rich bourbon undertones. As it simmers, it becomes beautifully thick and shiny, clinging to every meatball for that irresistible, sticky finish. Chili flakes add optional heat, and orange zest brightens the entire dish with a burst of citrus.
These meatballs cook quickly and transition seamlessly from oven to skillet, making them an ideal last-minute appetizer. Serve them warm in a bowl with toothpicks or keep them simmering on low in a slow cooker for a party. Either way, the flavor only gets better as they rest in the sauce.
Give them an extra five minutes on low heat before serving, and the glaze turns into pure magic—deep, sticky, and wonderfully aromatic.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a beef/pork blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
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