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Best Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 4 hours

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet scrumptious dish:

  • 2 lbs frozen meatballs (fully cooked): A lifesaver for busy days. Use halal meatballs or homemade ones if preferred.
  • 1 cup grape jelly: The sweet base of the sauce that gives it a nostalgic twist.
  • 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce: Adds smokiness and tang. Choose your favorite brand or go for a homemade version!
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional): Balances the sweetness with a hint of umami.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
  • ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional): For a touch of heat, if you like spice.

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all the ingredients. This recipe is all about ease, so having everything ready will make the process even smoother.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

  • In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and red chili flakes (if using).
  • Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well blended. The grape jelly might look lumpy at first, but it will melt beautifully as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Meatballs to the Crockpot

  • Place the frozen meatballs into the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs

  • Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, ensuring every meatball is coated. Use a spoon to gently mix them if needed, but don’t worry if they’re not completely covered. The sauce will spread as it heats.

Step 5: Set It and Forget It

  • Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat for 4 hours or high heat for 2 hours.
  • About halfway through cooking, give the meatballs a gentle stir to ensure the sauce evenly coats them.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

  • After cooking, switch the crockpot to the warm setting to keep the meatballs hot for serving.
  • If the sauce looks too thin, remove the lid and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken up.

Optional: Garnish

Sprinkle fresh parsley or sesame seeds over the meatballs before serving for a pop of color and added texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 18g