Sophia Langley
Grape Jelly Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. These meatballs are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich sauce made from grape jelly and barbecue sauce, creating a glossy and flavorful coating. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a party or as a quick and easy dinner over rice, they are always a hit. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and effort but deliver maximum flavor.
With just a few minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together into a mouthwatering dish. The grape jelly adds a subtle sweetness, while the barbecue sauce brings a smoky depth that enhances the meatballs. This recipe is versatile, too—you can make it with frozen meatballs for convenience or prepare homemade meatballs for a more personal touch. Either way, they’re guaranteed to be a delicious and satisfying treat!
Ingredients for Grape Jelly Meatballs
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and garlic powder. Stir until the ingredients are well blended. The sauce should have a smooth consistency with a balance of sweet and smoky flavors.
Step 2: Add Meatballs to the Slow Cooker
Place the frozen meatballs into your slow cooker. If you are using homemade meatballs, make sure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the pot. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure all the meatballs are coated and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Once the sauce is thick and glossy, and the meatballs are heated through, they are ready to serve.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For extra flavor and presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the meatballs before serving. Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a full meal. Enjoy!
Storage Instructions
Leftover Grape Jelly Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water to loosen it.
For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~10g
- Sodium: ~450mg
- Sugar: ~18g
(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on the brand of ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes! You can use homemade meatballs, but be sure to cook them first before adding them to the slow cooker.
2. What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A smoky or hickory-flavored barbecue sauce pairs well with the sweetness of the grape jelly, but any brand you prefer will work.
3. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely! Just combine the ingredients in a large pot and simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Do I need to thaw frozen meatballs before cooking?
No, frozen meatballs can go straight into the slow cooker without thawing.
5. Can I use a different jelly flavor?
Yes! If you don’t have grape jelly, try apricot or cranberry jelly for a unique twist.
6. How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a small amount of water or broth to thin it out while reheating.
7. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, reheat in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
8. What side dishes go well with these meatballs?
They pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or even as a sandwich filling in a hoagie roll.