Beautifully presented, Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs are simply made with the delicious combination of cranberry and orange, Dorothy Lynch for some pizzaz, and some brown sugar to sweeten the deal.

Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs: The Ultimate Sweet & Tangy Holiday Appetizer

As the holiday season draws near, the quest for the perfect appetizer intensifies. You want something that’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and delivers an unforgettable flavor experience. Look no further than Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs – a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, elevated by a secret ingredient: Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. These meatballs are not just a holiday showstopper; they’re versatile enough for any casual gathering, from game day celebrations to cozy family dinners.

Imagine succulent meatballs coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce that combines the tartness of cranberries, the bright citrus zest of clementines, a touch of brown sugar for sweetness, and the signature “pizzazz” of Dorothy Lynch. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts and home cooks alike. Whether you opt for the convenience of your slow cooker or the swiftness of a stovetop skillet, these cranberry meatballs promise a beautiful presentation and a taste that will have everyone asking for more.

This post is proudly sponsored by Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. While this content is brought to you in partnership, all opinions and my genuine affection for Nebraska’s own Dorothy Lynch are entirely my own.

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What Makes Dorothy Lynch So Special?

Many might think of Dorothy Lynch solely as a salad dressing, but its unique flavor profile makes it a star ingredient in countless recipes, including these irresistible cranberry meatballs. For those unfamiliar with this Midwestern gem, Dorothy Lynch is far more than just a dressing – it’s a condiment with a rich history and a taste that truly stands out.

The Inspiring Story Behind Dorothy Lynch Dressing

The legend of Dorothy Lynch began in the 1940s with a remarkable woman named, fittingly, Dorothy Lynch. She crafted this distinctive dressing for her patrons at a restaurant she and her husband operated within the local Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. Her creation quickly became a local sensation. Customers adored its flavor so much that they would bring their own empty bottles to the restaurant, eager to have Dorothy refill them to enjoy her dressing at home. This grassroots popularity eventually led to the commercial production of what is now a beloved staple across many American households, particularly in the Midwest.

The Unique Flavor Profile: Sweet, Tangy, and Unmistakably Homemade

Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is often described as a sweet and spicy dressing with a thick, creamy texture. Its vibrant reddish-orange hue might lead some to mistake it for a French dressing, but the comparison ends there. French dressing is typically oil-based, while Dorothy Lynch boasts a rich tomato base, giving it a completely different depth of flavor. The best way to characterize its taste? Simply “homemade.” It possesses a comforting, familiar sweetness balanced by a subtle tang and a hint of spice, making it incredibly versatile for both salads and cooking.

Beyond the Salad Bowl: The Culinary Versatility of Dorothy Lynch

While Dorothy Lynch excels as a salad dressing – a role for which many Nebraskans, including myself, first discovered its magic – its potential extends far beyond greens. It’s an exceptional condiment, lending its unique character to a variety of dishes. Try dipping french fries, pizza slices, or even fried chicken into it for an unexpected burst of flavor that’s truly addictive. For those mindful of calorie intake, Dorothy Lynch also offers a Light & Lean option, providing the same beloved taste with fewer calories.

However, the real magic happens when you incorporate Dorothy Lynch into your cooking. Its balanced sweet and tangy notes act as a fantastic base or enhancer for sauces, marinades, and savory dishes. I’ve personally experimented with it in countless ways over the years, and each time, it transforms ordinary meals into something truly extraordinary. Let’s explore some fantastic recipes that highlight the incredible versatility of Dorothy Lynch.

As you can see, Dorothy Lynch is far more than just a salad dressing. Its remarkable versatility allows it to enhance a wide array of dishes, adding a signature sweet and tangy depth that makes every bite memorable. How will you incorporate this incredible condiment into your next culinary adventure?

Crafting Your Perfect Cranberry Meatballs

For the upcoming holidays, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and easy appetizer, Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs are an absolute must-try. This recipe’s simplicity belies its incredible flavor, making it a go-to for busy entertainers.

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Cranberry Meatballs:

This recipe shines with just five core ingredients, proving that extraordinary taste doesn’t require a long shopping list.

• Frozen Beef Meatballs (or homemade): Opt for a good quality frozen variety for ultimate convenience, or make your own homemade meatballs for an extra personal touch.
• Cranberry Sauce: The foundation of our sweet and tangy sauce. For the best flavor, I highly recommend using a quality whole berry cranberry sauce, whether homemade or a good store-bought version. Avoid the gelatinous, canned variety. My Mom’s Cranberry Sauce, with its subtle orange and pineapple notes, works perfectly.
• Brown Sugar: To deepen the sweetness and add a rich, caramelized undertone to the sauce.
• Clementines (Zested and Juiced): Fresh citrus brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the meatballs and enhancing the cranberry flavor. You’ll use both the zest for aromatic intensity and the juice for vibrant acidity. If clementines aren’t available, 2 tablespoons of orange juice and 2 teaspoons of orange zest can be substituted.
• Dorothy Lynch Salad Dressing & Condiment: The secret weapon! It infuses the sauce with its signature sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy “pizzazz,” bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnishing): Optional, but highly recommended for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Effortless Preparation: Stovetop or Slow Cooker

The beauty of Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs lies in their straightforward preparation, allowing you to choose the method that best suits your schedule. You can cook them quickly on the stovetop or let them simmer to perfection in your slow cooker.

To begin, simply combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, Dorothy Lynch, and the fresh juice and zest from your clementines in a bowl. Whisk until thoroughly mixed. This vibrant sauce is where all the magic happens.

Next, place your frozen meatballs directly into your chosen cooking vessel – whether it’s a sturdy cast iron skillet on the stovetop or the basin of your slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring each one is generously coated. Cover with a lid and cook until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

• Stovetop Method: On medium heat, these meatballs will be perfectly cooked and ready to serve in approximately 20 minutes. Serving them directly from a warm skillet not only keeps them hot but also adds a charming, rustic touch.
• Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, cook on high for about 1 hour or on low for approximately 2 hours. This is perfect for parties, as the slow cooker will keep them warm throughout your gathering.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

Once cooked, these meatballs are ready to impress! While not strictly necessary, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a festive pop of color and a touch of freshness that truly elevates the presentation. I often serve them directly from the hot skillet, placed on a trivet for safety, with decorative toothpicks for easy grabbing. This “less dishes, more happiness” approach is always a win in my book! If you have young children or prefer an alternative, simply transfer them to a serving bowl – just ensure they’re not too hot for little hands.

Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs make an excellent appetizer for holiday parties, potlucks, or game nights. For a more substantial offering, they can also be served as a main course alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Their vibrant flavor profile pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty sides.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

These cranberry meatballs are fantastic for make-ahead convenience. Prepare the sauce up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply combine with the meatballs and heat as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.

Variations to Explore

While the classic recipe is divine, feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce mixture for a fiery twist.
• Herbaceous Notes: Beyond parsley, consider a touch of fresh rosemary or thyme, especially if you’re using homemade meatballs with a more savory profile.
• Different Citrus: While clementines are wonderful, orange or tangerine zest and juice can also be used, offering slightly different aromatic notes.
• Alternative Meatballs: While beef is classic, turkey or chicken meatballs can also be used for a lighter option. Adjust cooking times if necessary.

^Love this recipe? Pin it!^

Don’t let this incredible recipe get lost! Make sure you can easily find Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs whenever you need them by pinning this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board. It’s the perfect way to save inspiration for your next gathering or holiday feast!

Where to Find Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment

If you’re eager to try this versatile dressing but aren’t sure where to find it, here’s how to get your hands on a bottle:

Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is readily available at most grocery stores across Nebraska, its home state. Its popularity has grown, and it can now be found in select grocery stores west of the Mississippi, including major retailers like Walmart and Hy-Vee. If you’re having trouble locating it in your local store, you can always stock your pantry by shopping online through Buy Nebraska or Amazon. Never miss out on the unique flavor of Dorothy Lynch!

To stay updated on new recipes and exciting ways to use this incredible condiment, be sure to follow Dorothy Lynch on their official website, and connect with them on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. You’ll find delicious inspiration all year long!

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection. Let’s make Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs and bring some sweet and tangy joy to your table!

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Print Recipe

Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs

Beautifully presented, Dorothy’s Cranberry Meatballs are simply made with the delicious combination of cranberry and orange, Dorothy Lynch for some pizzaz, and some brown sugar to sweeten the deal.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 25 mins

Course: Hot Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Cranberry, Crock Pot, Dorothy Lynch, Holiday appetizer, hot appetizer, How to make cranberry meatballs, Meatballs, slow cooker

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 130 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

• 1 (22 ounce) package frozen beef meatballs
• 2 cups cranberry sauce
• ½ cup Dorothy Lynch Homestyle or Light & Lean
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• Juice and Zest of two clementines (or 2 Tablespoons orange juice and 2 teaspoons orange zest)
• Fresh parsley for garnishing (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix together cranberry sauce, clementine juice, zest, brown sugar, and Dorothy Lynch in a bowl.
2. Place frozen meatballs in a skillet or your slow cooker.
3. Pour sauce over meatballs, stir to coat thoroughly.
4. Cover and cook until meatballs are heated through.

Notes

• Meatballs will cook in about 20 minutes on the stove over medium heat.
• To slow cook meatballs, cook on high for about one hour, or low for about 2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 |
Calories: 130kcal |
Carbohydrates: 32g |
Protein: 1g |
Cholesterol: 1mg |
Sodium: 28mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 26g