Easy BBQ Meatballs with Grape Jelly
A simple and delicious crockpot recipe combining frozen meatballs with a sweet and tangy grape jelly barbecue sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours on low or 1.5 to 2 hours on high
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes to 4 hours 5 minutes on low or 1 hour 35 minutes to 2 hours 5 minutes on high
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) frozen pre-cooked beef or turkey meatballs
- 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce
- 1 cup (320g) grape jelly (seedless)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, grape jelly, garlic powder, onion powder, and apple cider vinegar if using. Stir until well mixed.
- Place frozen meatballs evenly in the crockpot; no need to thaw.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs, gently stirring to coat without breaking them.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours until sauce is bubbly and meatballs are heated through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Stir once or twice during cooking if possible to keep sauce distributed.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm, spooning meatballs and sauce onto a platter or individual plates.
Notes
Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs for best results. Stir occasionally but gently to avoid breaking meatballs. Leftover sauce can be used as a glaze or dipping sauce. For gluten-free, ensure all ingredients are labeled gluten-free. Can substitute grape jelly with other fruit preserves adjusting sweetness accordingly. Oven baking option: bake covered at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 15
Keywords: BBQ meatballs, grape jelly, crockpot recipe, easy dinner, potluck dish, slow cooker meatballs, sweet and tangy sauce