There’s something magical about walking into a home filled with the aroma of something delicious simmering in a crockpot. These Crock Pot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. This recipe brings together the unexpected sweetness of grape jelly and the tangy heat of sweet chili sauce, transforming everyday meatballs into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
The origins of combining sweet and tangy flavors with meatballs date back to vintage party recipes, often used to bring a festive touch to gatherings. These meatballs are not only incredibly easy to make but also versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a main course alongside a bowl of fluffy rice or steamed vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work! Perfect for busy days or last-minute hosting.
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy creates a rich glaze that clings to the meatballs in every bite.
- Crowd Appeal: These meatballs are always the first dish to disappear at parties – a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer beef or turkey meatballs, this recipe works wonderfully with store-bought or homemade versions.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 32 oz frozen beef or turkey meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
How to Make Crock Pot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep Your Crockpot: Start by lightly greasing your crockpot with a bit of non-stick spray or lining it with a crockpot liner for easy cleanup.
- Add the Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs into the crockpot. Spread them out evenly to ensure they’re all coated with the sauce later.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the grape jelly and sweet chili sauce until smooth. Don’t worry if it seems too sweet – the heat from the chili sauce balances it beautifully during cooking.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs. Use a spoon to toss everything gently, ensuring the meatballs are coated evenly.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce well-distributed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish or leave them in the crockpot on the “warm” setting for parties.
Helpful Tips:
- Homemade Meatballs: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use homemade meatballs. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
- Extra Sauce: Love extra sauce? Double the jelly and sweet chili sauce for a saucier dish. This also makes a fantastic drizzle for rice or noodles.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot sweet chili sauce based on your preference.
Details:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5-6 hours
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer or Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (check your meatball ingredients)
Notes:
- If using fresh meatballs, adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re heated through.
- For a fun twist, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 450mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the crockpot on the “low” setting for 1-2 hours before serving.
2. Can I use another type of jelly?
Yes! While grape jelly is traditional, you can experiment with apple jelly or apricot preserves for a unique twist.
3. What can I serve with these meatballs?
Serve them over rice, alongside mashed potatoes, or as part of a party spread with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the crockpot or microwave.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other crowd-pleasers:
Conclusion:
These Crock Pot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce are proof that simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The sweet and spicy glaze will leave your guests asking for seconds—and the recipe!
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Crock Pot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce
Description
There’s something magical about walking into a home filled with the aroma of something delicious simmering in a crockpot. These Crock Pot Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Sweet Chili Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. This recipe brings together the unexpected sweetness of grape jelly and the tangy heat of sweet chili sauce, transforming everyday meatballs into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
The origins of combining sweet and tangy flavors with meatballs date back to vintage party recipes, often used to bring a festive touch to gatherings. These meatballs are not only incredibly easy to make but also versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a main course alongside a bowl of fluffy rice or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen beef or turkey meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Prep Your Crockpot: Start by lightly greasing your crockpot with a bit of non-stick spray or lining it with a crockpot liner for easy cleanup.
- Add the Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs into the crockpot. Spread them out evenly to ensure they’re all coated with the sauce later.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the grape jelly and sweet chili sauce until smooth. Don’t worry if it seems too sweet – the heat from the chili sauce balances it beautifully during cooking.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs. Use a spoon to toss everything gently, ensuring the meatballs are coated evenly.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce well-distributed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish or leave them in the crockpot on the “warm” setting for parties.
Notes
- If using fresh meatballs, adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re heated through.
- For a fun twist, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
