Description
Sticky, sweet, and tangy grape jelly meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Ready in just 30 minutes, these meatballs are coated in a glossy, addictive sauce and perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday buffets.
Ingredients
Scale
- 32 oz frozen meatballs (homestyle or Italian, beef or turkey)
- 1 cup grape jelly (seedless preferred)
- 1 cup chili sauce (such as Heinz)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- A few dashes hot sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- If using frozen meatballs, measure out 32 oz. No need to thaw.
- If using homemade meatballs, shape and bake until just cooked through (about 20 minutes at 400°F).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together grape jelly and chili sauce until smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce if using.
- Add meatballs to slow cooker. Pour sauce over the top and gently stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 3–4 hours. Alternatively, simmer on the stovetop in a large pot for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more hot sauce or chili sauce if desired.
- Transfer meatballs to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Insert toothpicks for easy serving.
- Keep warm in the slow cooker on ‘warm’ setting, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Seedless grape jelly creates a smoother sauce. For gluten-free, use gluten-free meatballs and chili sauce. You can substitute cranberry or currant jelly for a different flavor. For a thicker sauce, uncover slow cooker for last 15 minutes or stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with water. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 14
Keywords: grape jelly meatballs, party appetizer, easy meatballs, slow cooker meatballs, holiday appetizer, sweet and savory meatballs