I love how this crockpot grape jelly meatballs recipe turns just three simple ingredients into a sweet and savory dish that’s always a hit. Whether I’m hosting a party, bringing something to a potluck, or just want an easy appetizer, these meatballs deliver every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like how effortless this recipe is—no need to make meatballs from scratch or simmer sauce on the stove. Everything goes into the crockpot, and a few hours later, I have juicy, flavorful meatballs coated in a glossy, sweet BBQ glaze. It’s a no-fuss, minimal-cleanup dish that always impresses.
ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• BBQ sauce
• Grape jelly
• Frozen cooked meatballs
directions
I start by combining the BBQ sauce and grape jelly directly in the crockpot, stirring until smooth. Then I add the frozen meatballs and stir to coat them evenly in the sauce. I set the crockpot to low and cook for about 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 hours. If I’m around, I give them a stir halfway through to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and cooks for 2 hours on high or 4 to 5 hours on low, giving me a total time of about 2 to 5 hours depending on the heat setting I use.
Variations
Sometimes I swap the grape jelly with cranberry sauce or apricot preserves to change up the flavor. I’ve also added a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicier kick. If I’m out of frozen meatballs, I use homemade or turkey meatballs—both work just as well.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months. When it’s time to reheat, I use the microwave in short bursts or warm them on the stovetop with a splash of extra sauce to keep them moist. Reheating in the crockpot on low works great too if I’m serving a crowd again.
FAQs
How long can I keep these meatballs in the fridge?
I keep them refrigerated for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, I’ve made this with fully cooked homemade meatballs, and it works just fine.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs before cooking?
No, I add them straight from the freezer. They cook perfectly in the crockpot.
Can I use a different kind of jelly?
Absolutely. I’ve tried cranberry, apricot, and even apple jelly, and each gives a different but delicious flavor.
What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party?
I leave them in the crockpot on the “warm” setting. They stay saucy and hot for hours that way.
Conclusion
This crockpot meatballs recipe is my go-to when I want something easy, delicious, and guaranteed to please a crowd. With only three ingredients and almost no prep, it’s the kind of dish I keep in my back pocket for any occasion.
Grape Jelly Meatballs (Crockpot)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This easy crockpot grape jelly meatballs recipe combines just three ingredients—BBQ sauce, grape jelly, and frozen meatballs—into a sweet and savory party favorite, perfect for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
- 18 oz BBQ sauce
- 18 oz grape jelly
- 32 oz frozen cooked meatballs (about 50 meatballs)
Instructions
- In a crockpot, mix together the BBQ sauce and grape jelly until smooth.
- Add the frozen meatballs and stir until all meatballs are well coated in the sauce.
- Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for about 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible for even coating.
- Serve warm directly from the crockpot or transfer to a serving dish.
Notes
- Try cranberry jelly or pineapple chunks as alternatives for a different flavor twist.
- Add chili sauce or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Homemade or turkey meatballs can also be used.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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