Tangy Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe: Party Favorite

Tender and succulent slow cooker grape jelly meatballs bring a delightful twist to traditional party appetizers.

Unexpected flavor combinations often surprise and delight curious cooks seeking something different.

Grape jelly might sound unusual, but it creates a magical sweet-tangy glaze that coats each perfectly seasoned meatball.

Slow cooking ensures the meat stays incredibly juicy and absorbs rich, complex flavors throughout preparation.

Minimal effort yields maximum deliciousness with this simple yet impressive dish.

Home cooks appreciate recipes that wow guests without demanding hours of complicated kitchen work.

You will absolutely love how these meatballs become an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to become your new go-to party favorite.

Why People Love Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Simplify Cooking: Perfect for home cooks seeking a low-maintenance recipe that delivers delicious results with minimal active preparation.
• Customize Convenience: Slow cooker method allows hands-off cooking, letting you multitask while a mouthwatering meal develops without constant monitoring.
• Crowd-Pleasing Protein: Combines two types of ground meat for a rich, flavorful base that appeals to both kids and adults at gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners.
• Sauce Sensation: Sweet and tangy grape jelly and barbecue sauce create an irresistible glaze that transforms ordinary meatballs into a crave-worthy dish everyone will love.

What Goes In Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Ground Beef: A flavorful and protein-rich base that provides a robust foundation for the meatballs.
• Ground Pork: Adds moisture and a deeper, richer taste to complement the beef.

• Onion: Brings a sweet and savory depth to the meat mixture.
• Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meatballs.

• Egg: Helps bind the meat mixture together for a cohesive texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds structure and helps retain moisture in the meatballs.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

• Grape Jelly: Creates a sweet base that balances the savory elements of the dish.
• Barbecue Sauce: Adds a tangy and smoky flavor profile to the meatballs.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a complex, umami-rich undertone to the sauce.

Making Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs Is Easy

Step 1: Blend Meats

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Use your hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring the meats are evenly blended and no clumps remain.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

• Finely chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs

Knead the mixture gently until all ingredients are well distributed throughout the meat.

Step 3: Shape Perfect Morsels

Roll the meat mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Create uniform meatballs to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 4: Prepare Slow Cooker Base

Arrange the formed meatballs in a single layer inside the slow cooker. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper heat circulation and even cooking.

Step 5: Create Magical Sauce

• Grape jelly
• Barbecue sauce
• Worcestershire sauce

Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and fully integrated.

Step 6: Coat Meatballs

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure each piece is completely covered with the sweet and tangy liquid.

Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Let the meatballs simmer for 4-5 hours until they are fully cooked and tender.

Step 8: Prevent Sticking

Midway through cooking, gently stir the meatballs to ensure even sauce distribution and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the cooker.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving platter. Spoon additional sauce over the top to add extra moisture and enhance the rich flavor.

Tips That Work For Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Meat Mixture Mastery: Blend ground beef and pork thoroughly to create a rich, flavorful base for your meatballs.
• Gentle Kneading Technique: Mix ingredients softly to prevent tough, dense meatballs and maintain a light, tender texture.
• Strategic Slow Cooking: Arrange meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even heat distribution and perfect cooking.
• Sauce Coating Magic: Whisk sauce ingredients completely to achieve a smooth, well-integrated glaze that clings perfectly to each meatball.
• Flavor-Boosting Stirring: Gently stir meatballs midway through cooking to distribute sauce evenly and prevent sticking, enhancing overall taste.

Different Ways To Make Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Spicy Kick Meatballs: Replace grape jelly with hot pepper jelly and add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery version.
• Mediterranean Herb Meatballs: Substitute ground pork with ground lamb, add fresh mint and oregano, and use tzatziki sauce instead of barbecue sauce.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs, replace regular barbecue sauce with a certified gluten-free version, and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Lean Protein Variation: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork, and swap barbecue sauce with a low-sugar tomato-based sauce for a healthier alternative.

What To Serve With Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Pair Sweet Barbecue Meatballs with Bold Red Wine: A robust Zinfandel or Syrah complements the rich meat and sweet-tangy sauce, cutting through the richness with its complex flavor profile.
• Create Crisp Vegetable Side Dish: Prepare a fresh cucumber salad with dill and light vinaigrette to balance the meatballs' intense sweetness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Crusty Artisan Bread: Select a rustic sourdough or French baguette to soak up the delicious sauce, adding textural variety and enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Match with Bright Citrus Mocktail: Mix sparkling water, fresh orange juice, and a splash of grenadine to create a zesty, non-alcoholic beverage that cleanses the palate between bites.

How To Store Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

• Transfer cooled meatballs to an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is clean and the meatballs are completely covered with sauce to maintain moisture.
• Pack meatballs with sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air. Label with the date and store for up to 2-3 months. Freeze in single-layer portions for easier thawing.
• Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Your Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs Questions

• Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ensure the meat has enough fat content to keep meatballs moist.

• How do I prevent meatballs from becoming dry?

Mix meats with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, and avoid overcooking. The slow cooker’s low heat helps maintain moisture and tenderness.

• Is it necessary to brown meatballs before slow cooking?

While browning adds extra flavor, it’s not required for this recipe. The slow cooking process will develop rich flavors and keep meatballs juicy.

• Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare meatballs and sauce, refrigerate overnight, then transfer to slow cooker. This can enhance flavor development and save preparation time.

Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 5 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Slow cooker grape jelly meatballs bring zesty comfort to your dinner table, blending sweet and savory flavors in one irresistible dish. Hearty protein mingles with tangy sauce, creating a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup grape jelly
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef and ground pork, ensuring an even blend of meats.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs into the meat mixture, kneading gently until all ingredients are uniformly distributed.
3. Shape the meat mixture into uniform, bite-sized meatballs, approximately 1-1.5 inches in diameter, creating consistent portions for even cooking.
4. Arrange the formed meatballs in the slow cooker, creating a single layer without overcrowding to promote optimal heat circulation.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together grape jelly, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated.
6. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs, ensuring each piece is generously coated and surrounded by the sweet and tangy liquid.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, allowing the meatballs to simmer and absorb flavors for 4-5 hours until they are fully cooked and tender.
8. Occasionally stir the meatballs halfway through cooking to promote even sauce distribution and prevent sticking.
9. Once cooking is complete, gently transfer meatballs to a serving platter, spooning additional sauce over the top for extra moisture and flavor.

Notes

• Select a mix of ground meats like beef and pork for richer, more complex flavor profile and better texture compared to using just one type of meat.
• Consider using lean ground meat to reduce overall fat content while maintaining juiciness and preventing dry meatballs during slow cooking.
• Experiment with alternative sauce combinations like sweet chili sauce, teriyaki, or honey mustard for unique flavor variations that cater to different taste preferences.
• Prepare meatballs ahead of time and freeze uncooked for convenient meal prep, allowing you to have a quick and delicious dish ready within hours of starting the slow cooker.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg