These Crock-Pot Party Meatballs are the ultimate easy appetizer for any gathering or celebration. With only three ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both sweet and savory. The combination of chili sauce and grape jelly creates a tangy and sweet glaze that perfectly coats the meatballs, making them irresistible. Whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a family get-together, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 (32 oz) bag of frozen meatballs
1 (12 oz) jar of chili sauce
1 (12 oz) jar of grape jelly

Directions

Place the frozen meatballs in the Crock-Pot.
In a small bowl, mix together the chili sauce and grape jelly until well combined.
Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the Crock-Pot, making sure they are evenly coated.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4-6 hours

Variations

Add Spice: For a kick of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the sauce mixture.
Swap the Meatballs: You can use homemade meatballs or substitute with vegetarian meatballs or chicken meatballs for a different flavor.
Fruit Variations: Instead of grape jelly, try using cranberry sauce or apricot preserves for a different fruity glaze.
Make It Sweet and Sour: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat meatballs in the Crock-Pot on low for 1-2 hours or in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through.

10 FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade meatballs, but frozen meatballs save time and are just as delicious when cooked in this sauce.
How long can I cook these meatballs in the Crock-Pot?
You can cook them on low for anywhere between 4-6 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally, especially towards the end, to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these the night before. After combining the sauce and meatballs in the Crock-Pot, refrigerate overnight and cook the next day.
Can I use a different type of sauce instead of chili sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the chili sauce with BBQ sauce or sweet and sour sauce for a different flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe by simply increasing the ingredients. Just make sure your Crock-Pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs before cooking?
No, frozen meatballs work perfectly fine and save you time. They will thaw and heat through as they cook in the Crock-Pot.
Can I cook these on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook them on high for 2-3 hours. However, cooking on low results in more tender meatballs.
Can I use other types of jelly?
While grape jelly is traditional, you can experiment with other fruit jellies like raspberry, strawberry, or even peach for different flavors.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last hour of cooking.
Can I serve these meatballs with something other than tortilla chips?
Yes, these meatballs are also great served with toothpicks as appetizers, on sliders, or over rice for a main dish.

Conclusion

Crock-Pot Party Meatballs are an easy, no-fuss appetizer that will have your guests coming back for seconds. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for parties, tailgates, and gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a big game watch or just need a quick snack, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let the Crock-Pot do the work, and enjoy a tasty treat with minimal effort!