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