Savory Apple Cider Maple Meatballs for Cozy Fall Comfort

Transform ordinary meatballs into a heartwarming dish with these Apple Cider Maple Meatballs, combining apple cider and maple syrup for cozy autumn flavors.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

24 ounces Frozen Fully-Cooked Meatballs Substitute with homemade or other types like beef, turkey, or plant-based.

For the Sauce

1 cup Apple Cider Apple juice can be used if apple cider is unavailable.
1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup Avoid substitutes as processed sugars will alter the intended flavor.
1/2 cup Ketchup Homemade ketchup can be a healthier twist.
2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard is a milder substitute.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can work in a pinch.

For the Spices

1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for the cozy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Skip substitutes to retain traditional flavor.
to taste Salt Adjust for optimal flavor balance.
to taste Pepper Adjust for optimal flavor balance.

For Finishing Touches

1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Optional, can substitute with fresh thyme or chives.

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by placing frozen fully-cooked meatballs into a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, ensuring the bottom is evenly covered.
In a medium bowl, whisk together apple cider, pure maple syrup, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker and gently stir to coat each meatball evenly.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Taste the meatballs and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm, either as a main dish or appetizer.

Nutrition

Serving: 4servingsCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience, and they maintain their flavor when reheated.

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