These juicy beef meatballs are packed with flavor from Vidalia onion and garlic, then finished with a glossy cranberry glaze that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Served alongside creamy sour cream mashed potatoes and tender roasted asparagus and carrots, this is a hearty, satisfying meal that feels special but comes together easily.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The meatballs are pan-seared for a golden crust, then simmered in a quick cranberry sauce that doubles as a glaze. Pair it all with velvety mashed potatoes and colorful roasted vegetables for a plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F with rack in top position. Wash and dry produce. Trim, peel and cut carrots on a diagonal into ½-inch-thick pieces. Toss on a baking sheet with a drizzle of oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast on top rack until browned and tender, 20-25 minutes.
- While carrots roast, dice potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Place in a medium pot with enough salted water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, 10-15 minutes. Reserve ½ cup potato cooking liquid, then drain. Return potatoes to pot and mash with sour cream and 1 tablespoon butter until smooth and creamy, adding splashes of reserved cooking liquid as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep covered off heat.
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, panko, garlic powder, Vidalia onion paste and ½ teaspoon salt. Form into 10-12 meatballs (about 1½ inches each).
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned all over and mostly cooked through, 4-6 minutes. If there’s excess grease, carefully pour it out.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry jam, chicken stock concentrate and ¼ cup water. Pour mixture into pan with meatballs. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook until meatballs are coated and cooked through, about 5 minutes. If glaze seems too thick, add a splash of water.
- Divide mashed potatoes, roasted carrots and meatballs between plates. Spoon any remaining sauce from pan over meatballs and mashed potatoes. Serve.
Recipe Tips
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or mash while still hot.
If you don’t have Vidalia onion paste, substitute with finely grated sweet onion.
To keep meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen pre-cooked meatballs. Skip the browning step and simmer them in the glaze until heated through.
Can I substitute the cranberry jam?
You can use whole berry cranberry sauce or even raspberry jam for a different flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.



























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