Crockpot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce are a tangy combination of sweet and zesty flavors. Whether you're hosting a party or need a quick appetizer, these meatballs will surely be a hit!
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Crockpot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. It was one of those panic moments when I knew we'd be heading out the door the minute I got home to a neighborhood party. WHAT was I going to bring?
With all of the ingredients on hand I tossed everything in the crockpot before I left and this was the result. What a winner! An easy recipe, with only minutes of prep, it's a real crowd pleaser!
From that day forward this became a go-to! If you're looking for a great appetizer for the Super Bowl, holiday parties or even family dinner, this should be your go-to as well!!
Ingredients you’ll need
Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for the exact measurements.
- Pre-cooked frozen meatballs - you can use all beef, turkey or even vegetarian meatballs if you prefer.
- Grape jelly, jalapenos jelly or apricot jelly - all are terrific!
- Your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce.
Creative variations to try
- You can also swap out your favorite bbq sauce for a bottle of Heinz chili sauce for a more classic recipe.
- Does your family prefer a spicy sauce? Add a couple of splashes of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- If you make homemade meatballs instead of using store-bought meatballs, cook them first before you add them to the crock pot.
Step-by-step instructions
This is an overview of the instructions. For complete directions, scroll down to the bottom.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sauce ingredients. Whisk until well combined.
- Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Pour the grape jelly barbecue sauce over the meatballs, stir until coated.
- Add lid and seal. Cook until heated through. Garnish with minced parsley.
Essential equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
To thicken BBQ sauce for meatballs, you can simmer it on low heat until it reduces and thickens. You can also mix in a small amount of cornstarch or flour slurry to help thicken the sauce.
It's the secret ingredient. It adds a sticky, sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce! The jelly also helps thicken the sauce and gives it a pretty glossy finish.
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep or making ahead of time. Just allow them to cool and store them in the fridge until you are ready to reheat them.
Top Tip
Are you going to say, Deb.... Why didn't you make 3 ingredient meatballs? Yes, those are a tiny bit easier, but these are SO. MUCH. BETTER! The few additions of spice and seasonings makes all the difference!
- Don't forget to spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray for easy clean up!
- If you don't have a slow cooker, you can also make these meatballs in a large pot on the stove. Simply simmer them on low heat for about an hour and stir occasionally until heated through and the sauce has thickened.
- Looking for a new way to use up leftovers? Turn leftover bbq jelly meatballs into meatball sliders with a package of dinner rolls and top them with cheddar cheese for a cheesy touch!
- Leftovers are also delicious with coleslaw and cornbread!
Storage
Refrigerate - Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days if you can manage to keep them on hand.
Freezer - These slow cooker meatballs can be frozen for up to 2 months in a resealable freezer-safe bag.
Reheat: Simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and then add them back into your crock pot or heat them on the stovetop.
Related recipes
- These Sweet Asian Meatballs are another one of my favorite party foods to make when I am feeding a crowd for the big game. But, they are also great on top of a bowl of rice for a main dish.
- Do you want to make a traditional meatball recipe instead? Try these Skillet Turkey Meatballs for that classic taste that you grew up with.
- Slow Cooker Meatballs and Gravy are also another great option for an easy dinner—the rich and savory gravy pairs ideally with the tender meatballs.
Find all of our tasty appetizers here!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!
Crockpot Grape Jelly and Barbecue Meatballs
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 26 ounce bag pre-cooked frozen meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Pour the grape jelly barbecue sauce over the meatballs, stir until coated.
- Add lid and seal. Cook on low heat for 4 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
ColleenB. - TX. says
I normally make and use my own cranberry sauce / jam; (without the BBQ sauce)and let them cook in crock pot for few hours on low.
I just may have to try using the grape jelly in place of.
Just wanted to Thank You for ALL the wonderful recipes that You share with us.
Cat says
So glad to get your recipe. Yummy and easy. Good crowd pleaser.
Debra Clark says
Wonderful, I hope you enjoyed the recipe Cat!
Cassie says
I've made this with Cocktail weenies. Can't wait to make as meatballs!
Debra Clark says
Oooh, now that sounds delicious!
Carol says
My grandkids love meatballs and I am sure they will love these. I have never made them before, so why not.
Debra Clark says
I bet they will love them Carol! (You will too and this is such an easy recipe!!)
CJ says
I have always wanted to make these and I think this weekend might be the perfect time to try them. They have always sounded so good.
Debra Clark says
Wonderful, enjoy CJ - these are SO GOOD!
Rene Freeman says
These sound amazing. I have all the ingredients I need. I also like that I can just put it on and forget about it. The leftovers for meatball sliders! Yes!!
Debra Clark says
Right? Dinner on day two? SCORE!!!
Jean Morgan says
I'm a make the meatballs person, but that combination for sauce does sound delicious.
Debra Clark says
And I bet with your homemade recipe, they would be absolutely amazing Jean! I hope you give it a try!!
Marsha juozaitis says
Wow. This recipe sounds so good and easy!! Great for game day. I think I will make my own meatballs and then use your recipe ❤️
Debra Clark says
Wonderful, I bet they will be amazing Marsha! Be sure to cook your meatballs before adding to the sauce. Enjoy!
Bob says
Had this a couple years ago, never got the recipe and forgot about it. Going to make it this weekend.
Debra Clark says
Fantastic, enjoy Bob. These are so easy and super good!
Lois says
These meat balls are just great. We love them.
Debra Clark says
Awesome, enjoy the recipe!!
Beverly A Lloyd says
I love this recipe. I have made this a few times. I have even used my homemade habanero jelly and it was great. Now I am going to have to make it again.
Debra Clark says
Enjoy!