No Thanksgiving meal feels complete without a bright, tangy, jewel-toned bowl of cranberry sauce on the table. It’s the one side dish that cuts through all the richness of turkey, stuffing, casseroles, and potatoes—bringing a refreshing pop of sweetness and acidity that balances the plate beautifully. Aldi’s budget-friendly ingredients make this homemade cranberry sauce an incredibly affordable addition to your holiday menu, proving once again that flavorful, homemade dishes don’t need to cost more than their store-bought versions.
Jump to RecipeThis recipe uses Aldi’s seasonal cranberries, sugar, and orange juice (or water), transforming them into a glossy, fragrant sauce that feels festive and homemade with almost zero effort. In less than 15 minutes, the berries burst into a vibrant mixture that thickens into the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and slightly jammy. It’s a simple stovetop recipe that even beginners can master, and it tastes far fresher and more balanced than anything that comes in a can.
One of the best things about this cranberry sauce is how versatile it is. Spoon it over your turkey, swirl it into mashed potatoes, add it to sliders made with leftover rolls, or even use it on top of yogurt or oatmeal the next morning. You can also prepare it days ahead of time—making Thanksgiving Day easier and less stressful.
Aldi’s $40 Thanksgiving Feast ingredients help keep this recipe budget-conscious without sacrificing flavor, which aligns perfectly with The Savvy Bite’s mission: helping families cook hearty, beautiful, affordable meals that feel special. This cranberry sauce may be simple, but it brings color, brightness, and festive cheer to the entire holiday spread.
⭐ What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive Aldi cranberries and pantry staples.
- Quick to make: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Bright + flavorful: Sweet, tart, and beautifully balanced.
- Make-ahead friendly: One of the easiest dishes to prepare early.
- Holiday essential: Completes the Thanksgiving flavor profile.
Cranberry Sauce
Course: Condiments u0026amp; Sauces10
servings5
minutes10
minutes15
minutesA tart and tangy cranberry sauce that balances out all your rich Thanksgiving flavors.
Ingredients
12 oz fresh cranberries
½ cup sugar
½ cup water or orange juice
Pinch of salt
Directions
- Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most berries pop.
- Remove from heat and cool completely before serving.
Optional Tips/Variations
- Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
Mix in a splash of maple syrup for added sweetness.
🧊 Storage + Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Store cooled cranberry sauce in an airtight container for up to 10 days in the fridge.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating / Serving:
- Most people serve cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature.
- If you prefer it warm, heat gently on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
- Add a splash of water or orange juice if it thickens too much.
