These Grape Jelly Meatballs are sweet, tangy, and irresistibly delicious. They come together with just a few simple ingredients and can be made on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a slow cooker, making the perfect game-day snack, holiday appetizer, or a quick family treat!
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Pin RecipeWho here loves grape jelly meatballs?! My hand definitely goes right up! Grape jelly meatballs might sound a little wild at first, but trust me, these sweet and savory bites are pure heaven.
The first time I made grape jelly cocktail meatballs was for a holiday party, and now they’re my go-to for pretty much every gathering. The tender meatballs are coated in a tangy-sweet sauce that is made from grape jelly and barbecue sauce, creating a flavor combo that’s both unexpected and totally irresistible. You’ll love this recipe when you are hosting a crowd or just need an easy appetizer. They are guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistable flavor. Grape jelly meatballs have a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, thanks to the grape jelly and BBQ sauce combo.
- Super easy. This grape jelly meatball recipe uses just 5 ingredients and can be made in a matter of minutes using the oven, stovetop or crockpot.
- Flexible and versatile. Serve meatballs with grape jelly sauce as a party appetizer, a game-day snack, or even over rice for a quick dinner. You can also use turkey or plant-based meatballs to fit different dietary needs.
Recipe Ingredients
- Frozen Meatballs – Any kind of fully cooked meatballs will work. You can use homemade meatballs or store-bought.
- Grape Jelly – Any brand will work! I like to use concord grape jelly made with real sugar rather than corn syrup.
- BBQ Sauce – Again, feel free to use your favorite brand! Maple barbecue sauce, spicy bbq sauce or a sweet nd sour sauce will all taste good!
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Garlic Powder
Directions for How to Make Grape Jelly Meatballs
You can make this grape jelly meatballs recipe in a slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Here are the simple steps for each method of cooking.
Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs
Step 1. Gather your ingredients together.
Step 2. Place the frozen meatballs in your slow cooker.
Step 3. Whisk together the grape jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder.
Step 4. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and toss the meatballs into the sauce.
Step 5. Cover the crockpot and cook over low heat for 4-5 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. Serve warm.
Stovetop Method
Start by whisking the sauce ingredients together in a skillet and then warming the sauce over medium heat. Once the sauce is smooth, toss in the frozen meatballs. Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes.
Oven-Baked Method
Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F, then place the frozen meatballs in a baking dish. Whisk together the ingredients for the sauce, then pour the sauce over the frozen meatballs, tossing the meatballs to coat them in the sauce. Cover the baking dish in aluminum foil, then bake for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through. Enjoy while hot!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy-sweet flavor.
- Tropical Twist: Swap grape jelly for pineapple preserves or apricot jam and add a splash of soy sauce for an island-inspired glaze.
- Homemade Meatballs: Use homemade meatballs for an extra touch of love. Simply bake or sauté them first, then toss them in the sauce.
- Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Opt for leaner meatball options for a lighter version.
- Vegan Option: Substitute with plant-based meatballs and ensure the sauce ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Tips for Success
- Make-Ahead Tip: These meatballs taste even better the next day! Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking, serve over rice for a full meal, or add them to a slider bun for mini sandwiches.
- Choose meatballs that are about 1-2 inches in diameter. These are the best sizes for popping in your mouth as a simple, one-bite appetizer.
- Swap the BBQ sauce for Chili sauce to make a classic sweet and tangy grape jelly meatball. Grape jelly meatballs with chili sauce are always delicious!
Serving Suggestions
Storage + Reheating
- To Store: Let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer them (with the sauce) to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To Freeze: Place the cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For easier portioning, freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a container.
- To Reheat: For refrigerated meatballs, warm them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For frozen meatballs, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker on low until hot. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway.
Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- Slow cooker, skillet or casserole dish
Ingredients
- 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen meatballs (fully cooked, any style)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, use your favorite brand
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, optional, for added depth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, optional
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method
- Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the grape jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm with toothpicks or on a platter.
Stovetop Method
- In a large skillet or saucepan, combine grape jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Heat over medium, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the frozen meatballs to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
- Cover and simmer on LOW heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the frozen meatballs in a large baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix grape jelly, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes for a slightly thickened sauce.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Share With Us!
I hope you enjoy this delicious Grape Jelly Meatball Recipe! If you give it a try, please share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag me on social media @allthingsmamma and use the hashtag #allthingsmamma.
I make little smokies and meatballs also with this same recipe except I did not use the Worcestershire but that does give it a little extra favorite. I like it!!