Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Crockpot Meatballs – Sweet Heat Holiday Hit!

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to turn up the heat while keeping things festive and cozy? 🌶️🍒

Every holiday table needs that one dish everyone keeps coming back to—the one with bold flavor, just the right kick, and irresistible aroma. These Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Crockpot Meatballs are exactly that dish. Rooted in classic sweet-and-savory party meatballs, this version adds a lively jalapeño twist that wakes up the palate without overpowering it.

Cranberries have long been a holiday staple, celebrated for their tart brightness and festive color. When paired with slow-cooked meatballs, they transform into a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite. The jalapeño adds gentle heat, balanced by sweetness, creating that crave-worthy “sweet heat” combination that guests love. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs infused with rich, bold sauce.

What makes this recipe especially beloved is its simplicity. The crockpot does most of the work, making it perfect for busy holidays, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Serve these meatballs straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks, or spoon them over rice for a comforting meal. However you present them, they bring warmth, excitement, and a touch of spice to the table—just enough to keep things interesting. 🎄✨

Let’s keep the tradition alive while adding a little spark. 👩‍🍳💛

🧺 Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if browning homemade meatballs)

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Sauce

• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• ½ cup chili sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar or honey
• 1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for milder heat)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

🥣 Step-by-Step Directions

1. If using homemade meatballs, lightly brown them in a skillet with olive oil for added flavor. Frozen meatballs can be used directly.
2. Place meatballs in the crockpot in an even layer.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, diced jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs, gently stirring to coat.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until heated through and flavorful.
6. Stir once halfway through cooking to ensure even coating.
7. Taste and adjust heat if desired—add extra jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for more spice.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 4 hours
⏳ Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~330
🍽️ Servings: 6

• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 520mg

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️