These tasty meatballs are made with a simple mix of grape jelly and BBQ sauce in a crockpot. They’re sweet, tangy, and perfect for any gathering or as a quick dinner!
Honestly, they’re the ultimate easy party dish! Just toss everything in, let it cook, and watch your friends devour them like they’re going out of style. 😂
I love serving these meatballs with toothpicks on the side. They make for a fun snack that everyone can enjoy, and they disappear fast! Perfect for game day or any casual get-together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: Using frozen meatballs makes this recipe super easy. You can go for beef, turkey, or chicken. If you’re trying to keep it lighter or vegetarian, you can use plant-based meatballs available at many stores.
Grape Jelly: The grape jelly is the star here! It adds sweetness that balances the tangy BBQ sauce. If you’re not a fan of grape flavor, you could use another fruit jelly, like raspberry or apricot, for a different twist.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce! This is where you can get creative. Feel free to use a smoky, spicy, or sweet sauce, depending on your taste. You could also make a homemade version for added freshness.
Chopped Green Onions: While they add a nice freshness, you can substitute with chives or parsley if you prefer. Both will brighten up the dish nicely!
How Can I Ensure the Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
One common concern is cooking the meatballs just right. The crockpot is forgiving, but to get the best results, follow these steps:
- Use a good quality frozen meatball. They cook evenly and taste better.
- Set your crockpot to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. If possible, stick to low heat for the best texture!
- Try not to open the lid too often while cooking, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.
After cooking, give the meatballs a gentle stir to make sure they’re coated evenly with the sauce—this adds great flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Grape Jelly & BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks for 2-6 hours, depending on the setting you choose. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal that warms up beautifully in your crockpot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Use a spoon or whisk to stir them together until the mixture is fully blended. This sweet and tangy sauce will coat the meatballs beautifully!
2. Prepare the Meatballs:
Take your frozen meatballs and place them directly in the crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; they will cook perfectly from frozen!
3. Add the Sauce:
Pour the grape jelly and BBQ sauce mixture over the meatballs. Make sure to cover them well, so they are all evenly coated and get scrumptious as they cook.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Put the lid on the crockpot to keep all that heat and flavor inside. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be heated through and tender by the end of this time. It’s hard to resist the delicious smell that will fill your kitchen!
5. Stir and Serve:
Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs in the sauce to coat them once more. This helps cover any spots missed earlier and enhances the flavor!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs warm, and don’t forget to sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch! These meatballs make a fantastic appetizer or can even be paired with rice for a main dish. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen Ones?
Absolutely! If you have homemade meatballs, you can use them instead of frozen. Just make sure they are fully cooked prior to adding them to the crockpot. Adjust the cooking time if needed; they may require less time than frozen meatballs, so keep an eye on them during cooking!
What Kind of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce that you enjoy! Sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy sauces all work wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination with the grape jelly. Just remember, the flavor of the BBQ sauce will significantly influence the final taste!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Yes, you can customize this recipe! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or onions to the sauce for added flavor and texture. If you like a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the grape jelly and BBQ mixture!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If you’re reheating in the crockpot, just add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist!
