Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grape Jelly Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with juicy meatballs coated in a tangy, flavorful sauce. The sauce, made from grape jelly and BBQ sauce, gives the meatballs a rich, sticky glaze that’s irresistible. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also super easy to make. You can use store-bought frozen meatballs to make it even quicker or make your own homemade meatballs for an extra special touch. They’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and simple appetizer!

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen meatballs (or about 20-30 homemade meatballs)

• 1 cup grape jelly

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the meatballs: If you’re using frozen meatballs, simply place them in a large slow cooker or a saucepan. If you’re using homemade meatballs, you can add them in the same way.

2. Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Stir until the grape jelly is fully dissolved into the sauce and the mixture is smooth. If desired, add Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder for additional flavor.

3. Coat the meatballs: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker or saucepan. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs with the sauce.

4. Cook the meatballs:

   • Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.

   • Stovetop: Cover the saucepan and simmer the meatballs on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using homemade meatballs, make sure they’re fully cooked through.

5. Serve: Once the meatballs are heated through and coated with the sweet and tangy sauce, they’re ready to serve! Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.

6. Enjoy: Serve the meatballs as an appetizer, or pair them with rice or mashed potatoes for a quick meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 (depending on the size of the meatballs and the serving portion)

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time:

  • Slow Cooker: 2-5 hours (depending on heat setting)

  • Stovetop: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes to 5 hours

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

• Sweet and sour version: Mix in a little bit of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to add some tang to the sauce.

• Use homemade meatballs: You can make your own meatballs using ground beef, turkey, or chicken and season them with your favorite spices.

• Add fruit: Try adding diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist on this classic recipe.

• Make them gluten-free: Use gluten-free meatballs or homemade meatballs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per serving, or heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade meatballs! Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the sauce. You can also cook them directly in the sauce on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.

2. Can I make these meatballs in advance?

Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Then, just heat them up in the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use different types of meat for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even  to make the meatballs. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.

4. Can I use sugar-free grape jelly?

Yes, you can use sugar-free grape jelly to reduce the sugar content. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still work well in the sauce.

5. Can I make these meatballs in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until they’re fully cooked, then toss them in the grape jelly and BBQ sauce mixture to coat them.

Conclusion

Grape Jelly Meatballs are a simple yet delicious appetizer that’s sure to be the star of any party or gathering. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, these meatballs are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy days. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, game day, or as a quick weeknight meal, Grape Jelly Meatballs are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings!

Grape Jelly Meatballs

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Grape Jelly Meatballs are a deliciously sweet and savory appetizer made with grape jelly and BBQ sauce, creating a rich, tangy glaze that coats tender meatballs. Perfect for parties or holiday gatherings!

• Author: Catherine
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-5 hours (slow cooker) or 25-30 minutes (stovetop)
• Total Time: 5 minutes to 5 hours
• Yield: 12-16 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooker, Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen meatballs (or about 20–30 homemade meatballs)
• 1 cup grape jelly
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

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Instructions

1. If using frozen meatballs, place them in a large slow cooker or saucepan. If using homemade meatballs, add them in the same way.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Stir until the grape jelly dissolves into the sauce and the mixture is smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder for extra flavor, if desired.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
4. For the slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. For stovetop, cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once heated through and coated with the sauce, the meatballs are ready to serve! Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve as an appetizer or with rice/mashed potatoes for a quick meal.

Notes

For extra heat, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce.Use homemade meatballs made from ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a more personal touch.To make gluten-free, use gluten-free meatballs or breadcrumbs in homemade meatballs.Make ahead by preparing the meatballs and sauce, then refrigerating them before heating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 25mg