Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs are a fun and tasty appetizer that’s super easy to whip up. Just mix frozen meatballs with grape jelly and a dash of BBQ sauce in a slow cooker, and let it do the magic!
The sweet and tangy sauce makes these meatballs a crowd favorite—perfect for parties or game days. Honestly, I can never resist sneaking a few before guests arrive! 😄
Making these is a breeze! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your home. They pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy snacking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef or turkey meatballs based on your preference. If you prefer homemade, make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
Grape Jelly: This is the star ingredient for the sauce’s sweet flavor. If you want to lower the sugar, consider using no-sugar-added grape jelly or a different fruit jam like peach or raspberry for a twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you like it spicy, go for a chipotle BBQ sauce. For a milder version, try a honey BBQ sauce. You could also use homemade barbecue sauce if you have it on hand.
Worcestershire Sauce: This enhances the savory note. If you’re out, soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce can work as substitutes. Just be mindful of the saltiness!
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add depth to the flavor. Fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onions are great alternatives, but be sure to sauté them first so they soften and release their flavors.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Come Out Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy meatballs in this recipe lies in the slow cooking process. By cooking them in the crockpot, the meatballs absorb the flavors from the sauce and become tender.
- Start by mixing your sauce ingredients well. This ensures every meatball is coated evenly.
- Place frozen meatballs in the crockpot well spaced apart, allowing the sauce to reach every piece.
- Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check that the meatballs are heated through before serving.
For added flavor, consider letting the meatballs sit in the sauce for a while after cooking. This allows the sauce to penetrate deeper into each meatball!
How to Make Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef or turkey)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cooks for 4 to 6 hours in the crockpot. So, it’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Add the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon to stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth. This sauce is going to bring a sweet and tangy flavor to your meatballs!
2. Preparing the Meatballs:
Next, take your frozen meatballs and place them directly into the crockpot. It’s okay if they are still frozen; they will cook perfectly in the sauce. Pour the grape jelly mixture over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated with that delicious sauce.
3. Cooking in the Crockpot:
Now, set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for 4 to 6 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally, if you can, so that the meatballs get nice and heated through while soaking up all the flavors of the sauce. You’ll know they are ready when the sauce is bubbly and everything smells amazing!
4. Serving the Meatballs:
When the cooking time is up, give the meatballs a gentle stir to make sure they are evenly coated in the sauce. Now it’s time to serve! You can put the meatballs on a platter, garnish them with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and add toothpicks to make them easy to grab. Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If you’re using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low, checking for doneness. Fresh meatballs cook faster than frozen ones, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them on the stove in a bit of sauce to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and meatballs in the crockpot the night before. Just keep it in the fridge and cook it on the low setting for 4-6 hours the next day. This makes for a great make-ahead dish!
What Can I Substitute for Grape Jelly?
If you don’t have grape jelly, you can substitute it with any fruit jam or a combination of grape juice mixed with sugar to taste. Raspberry or apricot preserves also work well for a different flavor profile!
