Slow Cooker Party Meatballs Recipe Easy Sweet Grape Jelly Glaze
These slow cooker party meatballs simmered in a sweet grape jelly glaze are an effortless, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for gatherings and potlucks. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs beautifully with tender meatballs for a deliciously addictive flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings (about 6 meatballs per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 pounds frozen pre-cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 1 cup grape jelly (240 ml)
- 1 cup chili sauce (240 ml)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together grape jelly, chili sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth and glossy (about 5 minutes).
- Place frozen pre-cooked meatballs evenly in a 6-quart slow cooker; no need to thaw.
- Pour the prepared grape jelly glaze over the meatballs and gently toss with a spoon or spatula to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours for a quicker option.
- About halfway through cooking, gently stir the meatballs to redistribute the sauce.
- Once cooked, the sauce should be thick and syrupy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
For thicker sauce, remove lid in the last 30 minutes and cook on high to reduce glaze. Avoid over-stirring to keep meatballs intact. Let meatballs rest in sauce for 15 minutes after cooking for best flavor. Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before cooking. For spicy variation, add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños. Can bake in oven at 350°F for 45 minutes if no slow cooker is available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6 meatballs (1
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Protein: 15
Keywords: slow cooker meatballs, party meatballs, grape jelly glaze, easy appetizer, game day snack, potluck recipe, sweet and tangy meatballs