Oh, you’re gonna love this one! Grape Jelly Meatballs are one of those recipes that make you feel like a superstar cook with hardly any effort. They’re sweet, tangy, and savory all at once, and kids and adults will devour them. Perfect for game days, parties, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. And the best part? Your trusty crockpot does all the heavy lifting. Toss everything in, set it, and go about your day. Easy, delicious, and family-approved—what more could you want?
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (fully cooked)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (any flavor, but hickory or sweet work best)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use pre-cooked meatballs – It saves so much time and ensures they’ll cook perfectly in the crockpot.
- Don’t skip the BBQ sauce – The tanginess balances the sweetness of the grape jelly.
- Low and slow wins the race – Cooking on low lets the flavors really soak into the meatballs.
- Add a kick – If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Double it up – These disappear fast, so make a double batch if you’re feeding a crowd!
Tools You’ll Need
- Crockpot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Meatballs: Swap beef for turkey or chicken meatballs if you prefer.
- BBQ Sauce: Use honey mustard, sweet chili sauce, or even ketchup in a pinch.
- Grape Jelly: Try cranberry jelly or apricot preserves for a twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Mix the jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, and garlic powder in a bowl the night before. Store it in the fridge, then pour it over the meatballs when you’re ready to cook!
Instructions
1. Add the Meatballs to the Crockpot
Pour the frozen meatballs into the crockpot in an even layer.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together grape jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and garlic powder. Stir until smooth.
3. Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs
Evenly pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they’re all coated.
4. Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, stirring once or twice.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce again. Serve straight from the crockpot or transfer to a serving bowl.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- These also freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat!
Conclusion
There you have it! The easiest, tastiest Grape Jelly Meatballs that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try this—whether it’s for a fun family night or your next gathering, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit. If you make them, let me know how they turned out in the comments below. I’d love to hear all about it! 💬
