Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Grape Jelly Meatballs are a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or family gatherings. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully with savory meatballs, creating a delicious combination that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 48 small homemade meatballs)
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ¾ cup grape jelly
Instructions
- Step 1: If using raw meatballs, cook them according to your recipe or package directions until fully done.
- Step 2: Place the cooked meatballs in a small slow cooker. Add ketchup and grape jelly to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
- Step 3: Cook the mixture on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Step 4: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Serve warm as an appetizer or alongside your favorite sides.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Try using different jelly flavors, like cranberry or raspberry, for a unique twist.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can simmer the meatballs and sauce gently in a covered skillet on the stove for about 20-30 minutes.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?
Yes, homemade meatballs work great. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker with the sauce.
Can I prepare grape jelly meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and cook the next day. Just allow extra cooking time if starting from cold ingredients.
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Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 48 meatballs 1x
Description
These Grape Jelly Meatballs are a delightful and easy appetizer or main dish combining savory meatballs with a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and ketchup, slow-cooked to perfection for a flavorful and tender bite.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 48 small homemade meatballs)
Sauce
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ¾ cup grape jelly
Instructions
- Prepare Meatballs: If using raw meatballs, cook them according to your recipe directions until fully cooked. If using frozen fully cooked meatballs, you can proceed to the next step.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small slow cooker, add the meatballs, ketchup, and grape jelly. Stir well to evenly coat the meatballs with the sauce mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is well combined, thick, and bubbly.
Notes
- Using fully cooked meatballs reduces cooking time and effort.
- The grape jelly adds sweetness that balances the tanginess of ketchup, creating a popular and crowd-pleasing flavor.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can heat the mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat until warm.
- This recipe works well for appetizers at parties, or you can serve with rice or mashed potatoes for a main course.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: grape jelly meatballs, slow cooker meatballs, party appetizer, sweet and tangy meatballs
