When it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers, Grape Jelly Meatballs are a nostalgic favorite for many. These tender meatballs simmer in a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and barbecue sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game day treat, or simply want a fun dinner option for your family, this recipe fits the bill. I’ve made these for various occasions, and they always vanish quickly—perfect for those moments when you need something effortless yet satisfying.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s something magical about the blend of grape jelly and barbecue sauce, enveloping juicy meatballs in a luscious glaze. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. Kids adore it, too! The slight sweetness in the sauce pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the meatballs, ensuring it’s a hit with both young and old alike. Plus, if you’re short on time, you can whip it up in a slow cooker, letting you enjoy more time with your guests—and isn’t that what it’s all about?
"These meatballs were gone in minutes at my party! Everyone loved the sweet and savory combo." – A satisfied guest
How this recipe comes together
Making Grape Jelly Meatballs is straightforward and can be broken down into just a few simple steps. You’ll start by mixing your ground beef with seasonings, shaping them into meatballs, and then letting them simmer in the delicious grape jelly-barbecue sauce mixture. It’s a no-fuss recipe that requires minimal cooking skills but delivers maximum flavor!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you don’t have ground beef, turkey or chicken can make great substitutes! Additionally, feel free to use low-sugar grape jelly for a lighter version.
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by combining the ground beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed, then shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly the size of a golf ball.
- In your slow cooker, blend together the grape jelly and barbecue sauce until smooth.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve the meatballs warm as a delightful appetizer or a main course!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Grape Jelly Meatballs are fantastic served on toothpicks as finger food, making them a popular choice for parties. You can also dish them over rice or serve them in slider buns for a fun twist. Pair them with a fresh salad or crudité platter to balance the flavors and texture—think crunchy veggies to complement the saucy meatballs.
Storage and reheating tips
After enjoying your delicious meatballs, you might have some leftovers. To store, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them up in the microwave or slow cooker until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Just add them directly to the slow cooker from frozen, adding an extra hour to the cooking time.
- To elevate the flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the sauce mixture.
- Keep an eye on the cooking process to avoid overcooking if you are unsure about slow-cooking times.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding different flavors to the grape jelly! Swap it out for orange marmalade for a citrusy kick, or add a splash of hot sauce for some heat. You can even mix in some crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy tropical twist. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Frozen meatballs can be a time-saver. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
They’re great served on toothpicks, as part of a buffet, or over rice or noodles for a more filling meal.
Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes! Use ground turkey or chicken and pair the meatballs with steamed vegetables instead of rice for a low-carb meal.
How long do leftovers last?
Properly stored, leftovers can last in the refrigerator for 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
With these instructions and tips, you’re all set to create a memorable and delicious dish that everyone will adore. Happy cooking!
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Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Grape Jelly Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and barbecue sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine ground beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well and shape into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- In a slow cooker, blend grape jelly and barbecue sauce until smooth.
- Add meatballs to the sauce mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Set slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or main course.
Notes
For a lighter version, use low-sugar grape jelly. You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American