Crockpot Meatballs
Tender, juicy meatballs simmered for hours in a classic sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and chili sauce. The ultimate easy party appetizer or simple weeknight dinner, all made in your slow cooker.
For 8 servings
4 steps. 180 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Sauce
- b.In the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the grape jelly, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Whisk the ingredients together until they are well-combined. The jelly may still be a bit lumpy, which is perfectly fine as it will melt during cooking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add Meatballs and Cook
- b.Add the frozen meatballs directly into the sauce in the slow cooker.
- c.Gently stir with a large spoon until all the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.
- d.Secure the lid on the slow cooker.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Slow Cook
- b.Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours.
- c.The meatballs are ready when they are heated through and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
- d.If possible, stir the meatballs once about halfway through the cooking time to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Once cooking is complete, give the meatballs a final gentle stir.
- c.Set the slow cooker to the 'Warm' setting if you are serving them for a party.
- d.Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. Serve hot with toothpicks as an appetizer or over rice or noodles for a main course.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier cleanup, you can use a slow cooker liner.
- 2Do not use raw meatballs for this recipe. They will release too much grease and alter the sauce's consistency and flavor.
- 3If the sauce seems too thick at the end of cooking, stir in a tablespoon or two of beef broth or hot water to reach your desired consistency.
- 4These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- 5To serve as a meal, pair the meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or serve them in a sub roll for a delicious meatball sandwich.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy version.
BBQ FlavorBBQ Flavor
Substitute the chili sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce and add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky, tangy twist.
Holiday StyleHoliday Style
For a festive flavor, replace the grape jelly with a 16-ounce can of whole berry cranberry sauce and the chili sauce with 12 ounces of apricot preserves.
Healthier OptionHealthier Option
Use frozen turkey or chicken meatballs, a low-sugar grape jelly, and a low-sodium chili sauce to reduce fat, sugar, and sodium content.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The meatballs provide a significant amount of protein, which is a crucial macronutrient for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Effortless Comfort Food
As a simple 'dump-and-go' recipe, it reduces stress in the kitchen. Enjoying this classic comfort food at social gatherings can also enhance mood and promote social connection.
Contains Lycopene
The chili sauce, typically made from a tomato base, is a source of lycopene. This powerful antioxidant helps protect cells from oxidative stress and is associated with various health benefits.
Frequently asked questions
A one-cup serving of Crockpot Meatballs contains approximately 450-550 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands of frozen meatballs, jelly, and chili sauce used.