Grape Jelly Meatballs
Grape Jelly Meatballs bring together a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in a three-ingredient dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is ideal for parties, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting an event or looking for an easy appetizer, Grape Jelly Meatballs deliver rich, tangy flavors that everyone will love. Plus, their effortless preparation makes them a go-to favorite for busy days.
Sweet and Tangy Ingredients for Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Grape jelly – Provides the sweet, fruity base that pairs perfectly with savory notes.
- Ketchup – Adds tangy depth and enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Meatballs – The star of the dish, offering hearty texture and absorbing the luscious sauce.
Simple Steps to Prepare Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Prep the meatballs: Use frozen, fully cooked meatballs or prepare homemade meatballs using your favorite recipe.
- Create the sauce: Combine ketchup and grape jelly in a slow cooker, stirring until smooth.
- Cook to perfection: Add meatballs, coat them evenly with the sauce, and cook on low for 3–4 hours until heated through.
For a stovetop alternative, simmer the sauce and meatballs together for a quicker preparation.
Tips and Variations to Elevate Your Dish
For a twist on classic Grape Jelly Meatballs, consider using chili sauce instead of ketchup to add a hint of spice. You can also experiment with cranberry or apricot preserves in place of grape jelly for unique flavor profiles.
Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce can bring complexity and heat to the sauce, making it even more memorable.
Storing and Reheating Grape Jelly Meatballs
Leftover Grape Jelly Meatballs store beautifully, making them perfect for next-day snacks or meals. Transfer cooled meatballs and sauce to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave at 30-second intervals until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Enjoy the simplicity and irresistible flavor of Grape Jelly Meatballs for any occasion!
Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ cup grape jelly
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (approximately 48 small meatballs) or homemade meatballs
Instructions
- If starting with raw meatballs, prepare them as per your preferred recipe. Arrange the cooked or frozen meatballs in a 4-quart slow cooker. Add the ketchup and grape jelly, stirring until the ingredients are well blended. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meatballs are thoroughly heated and the sauce is smooth and bubbling.