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Savory Crockpot Meatballs in Grape Jelly Sauce

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A simple and delicious party appetizer featuring tender meatballs slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy grape jelly and chili sauce. Perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare with pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds frozen pre-cooked meatballs (or homemade, fully cooked)
  • 1 cup grape jelly (Concord grape jelly recommended)
  • 1 cup chili sauce (classic canned, e.g., Heinz)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together grape jelly, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using until smooth and glossy.
  2. Place frozen pre-cooked meatballs evenly in the crockpot. If using homemade meatballs, ensure they are fully cooked or browned before adding.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs, gently stirring with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to coat without breaking the meatballs.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours if short on time.
  5. About halfway through cooking, gently stir the meatballs to ensure even sauce coverage.
  6. Once the sauce is thickened and meatballs are heated through, turn off the crockpot and serve warm.

Notes

Do not rush the cooking time; slow cooking allows flavors to meld and sauce to thicken. If sauce is too thick near the end, add a splash of water or broth to loosen. For a spicier version, add hot sauce or use spicy chili sauce. You can swap grape jelly with apricot or cranberry jelly for different flavors. Use pre-cooked frozen meatballs for convenience or homemade browned meatballs for freshness. Stir gently to avoid breaking meatballs.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot meatballs, grape jelly meatballs, party appetizers, easy meatball recipe, sweet and savory meatballs, slow cooker appetizers

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/savory-crockpot-meatballs-in-grape-jelly-sauce-easy-recipe-for-party-appetizers/