Description
If you’ve ever been to a potluck or holiday party in the Midwest, chances are you’ve met these glorious little meatballs. Sweet, tangy, a little smoky — Grape Jelly Cocktail Meatballs are the retro appetizer that still slaps. They’re ridiculously easy to make (3 ingredients if you’re keeping it classic), and they disappear faster than you can say “slow cooker.” Whether you’re serving them on toothpicks or piling them onto rice for a lazy dinner, they’re always a hit.
Ingredients
2 lbs frozen fully cooked meatballs (homemade if you’re fancy, but frozen works great)
1 cup grape jelly
1 cup barbecue sauce (go bold with smoky or spicy if you like)
Optional Add-Ins:
1 tbsp hot sauce for a kick
1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth
A splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami boost
Instructions
Step 1: Sauce Setup
In a saucepan or directly in your slow cooker, mix together grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Heat over medium until smooth and slightly bubbly, just to help everything blend.
Step 2: Meatball Drop
Toss in the frozen meatballs and stir to coat them evenly in the sauce. Make sure every meatball gets some love.
Step 3: Let ‘Em Simmer
If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. On the stovetop? Simmer covered over low heat for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Serve and Watch Them Vanish
Serve warm straight from the pot with toothpicks for party vibes, or spoon them over rice or mashed potatoes for a cozy meal.
Notes
Go spicy: Sub in a spicy BBQ sauce or add hot pepper jelly instead of grape
Make it tangier: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or mustard
Make it homemade: Use your favorite homemade meatballs instead of frozen
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2h
Nutrition
- Calories: ~270 kcal
- Protein: ~12g