Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs are a fun and easy dish. Just toss frozen meatballs in a slow cooker with grape jelly and barbecue sauce, and let them cook till warm and sticky!
These are perfect for parties or game nights. I can’t help but sneak a few before serving. You will too—trust me! 😄 Just pop them on toothpicks for easy munching!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: I recommend using pre-cooked frozen meatballs for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make homemade ones using ground beef or turkey mixed with breadcrumbs and spices. Homemade adds a nice touch!
Grape Jelly: This ingredient provides that classic sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using unsweetened apple or raspberry jelly, or even a fruit preserves. They may alter the taste slightly but can still be delicious.
Barbecue Sauce: I use a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, which complements the grape jelly. If you’d like a spicier kick, swap for a spicy barbecue sauce. You can also try honey barbecue for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Cook Meatballs in a Slow Cooker Without Sticking?
A key part of making these meatballs is ensuring they cook evenly and don’t stick. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start by preheating your slow cooker on low for about 15 minutes before adding ingredients.
- Place the meatballs in a single layer if possible, or slightly stagger them to allow heat circulation.
- Stir the meatballs a couple of times during cooking, which helps redistribute the sauce and prevents sticking.
By following these steps, your meatballs will come out perfectly tender and flavorful every time!
Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (pre-cooked)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by a cooking time of 3 to 4 hours on low or 1.5 to 2 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day or when you have friends over!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Begin by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your crockpot or slow cooker. No need to thaw them first—they will cook beautifully straight from frozen!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grape jelly and barbecue sauce. Stir well until the jelly is dissolved and the mixture is smooth and well blended. This will be the sweet coating for your meatballs!
3. Coat the Meatballs:
Pour the grape jelly and barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs, making sure they are all coated with that delicious sauce.
4. Set the Cooker:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. Choose low for 3 to 4 hours, or high for 1.5 to 2 hours. The meatballs are ready when they are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir Occasionally:
During the cooking process, give the meatballs a little stir once or twice to ensure they heat evenly and stay coated with the sauce. This will help prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooking is complete, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color if you like. Serve the meatballs warm, ideally with toothpicks for easy snacking!
This recipe delivers tender meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s a hit at parties or family gatherings. Enjoy indulging in this simple yet delicious dish!
Can I Use Regular Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade or refrigerated meatballs instead of frozen ones. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the sauce, and reduce the cooking time to about 2 hours on low or 1 hour on high, as they won’t need as much time to heat through.
What Type of Barbecue Sauce Works Best?
A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the grape jelly nicely. However, you can choose any variety based on your taste preferences, such as smoky, spicy, or even honey barbecue sauce for a different flavor twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, you can add a splash of water or extra grape jelly when reheating to loosen it up.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce mixture the night before, then store them in the fridge. Just add everything to the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in a few hours!