Lorenzo Devereaux
Sweet, tangy, and endlessly addictive, these Grape Jelly Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or effortless dinner option. Whether you’re prepping for game day, hosting a party, or just need a quick weeknight meal, this 3-ingredient wonder delivers big flavor with barely any fuss.
The magic lies in the unexpected pairing of grape jelly and chili sauce. Together, they create a glossy, finger-licking glaze that clings beautifully to tender meatballs. Simmered in a slow cooker or stovetop, the result is a saucy, savory-sweet treat that vanishes fast every time.
What Kind of Meatballs Work Best for Grape Jelly Meatballs?
You can use homemade or frozen meatballs, but the key is to choose fully cooked, hearty ones that hold up to the sauce. Beef meatballs bring a classic richness, while turkey or chicken options keep it lighter. Cocktail-sized meatballs are perfect for skewers and sharing.
Ingredients for the Grape Jelly Meatballs
Grape Jelly
The star ingredient that brings sweetness and a shiny finish. Choose a smooth variety without fruit chunks for the best texture.
Chili Sauce
Tangy, slightly spicy, and tomato-based, this balances out the grape jelly’s sweetness. Don’t substitute with sriracha or hot sauce; classic chili sauce like Heinz is ideal.
Meatballs
Fully cooked frozen or homemade meatballs make this dish incredibly easy. Go with beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference.
How To Make the Grape Jelly Meatballs
Step 1: Mix the Sauce Base
In a saucepan or slow cooker, combine 1 cup of grape jelly and 1 cup of chili sauce. Stir well until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Add 1.5 to 2 pounds of fully cooked meatballs to the pot. Stir to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Step 3: Cook Until Glazed and Heated Through
If using a slow cooker, set it to LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours. On the stovetop, simmer over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once hot and glazed, transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.
How to Serve and Store Grape Jelly Meatballs
Serve these warm straight from the slow cooker or transferred to a serving bowl with toothpicks for easy snacking. They’re fantastic on mini sandwich rolls, over mashed potatoes, or even as a rice bowl topper.
To store leftovers, cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze for up to 2 months – thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What to Serve With Grape Jelly Meatballs?
Mini Hawaiian Rolls
Sweet and soft, they make the perfect slider-sized meatball sandwiches.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes balance the sweet-savory glaze and turn this into a comfort meal.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
For a pop of freshness and crunch that lightens up the plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A great contrast to the saucy meatballs, especially when caramelized.
Rice Pilaf
Soaks up all the saucy goodness while keeping the dish balanced.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Go big with this indulgent combo. The cheesy richness is a match made in heaven.
Classic Caesar Salad
Something crisp and tangy to cut through the sweet and bold flavors.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love these sweet and sticky meatballs, here are more irresistible bites to try:
- Taco Ranch Bites for a Tex-Mex flavor punch.
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes when you’re craving cheesy, saucy bites.
- Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for savory-sweet balance in every bite.
- Cream Cheese Olive Spread to elevate your charcuterie board.
- Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Casserole if you want an easy-to-prep dinner idea with bold flavor.
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Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
If you’re looking for the easiest way to wow guests or feed a hungry crowd, Grape Jelly Meatballs are your answer. These sweet and tangy meatballs come together with just three ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy dinner, this quick appetizer transforms frozen meatballs into something crave-worthy. With just the right balance of bold chili sauce and rich grape jelly, this recipe is a go-to in the world of easy dinners, potluck ideas, and last-minute food ideas. Add it to your rotation for quick appetizers or savory snack bites!
Ingredients
1 cup grape jelly
1 cup chili sauce
1.5 to 2 pounds fully cooked meatballs
Instructions
1. In a saucepan or slow cooker, combine grape jelly and chili sauce. Stir until smooth.
2. Add meatballs to the mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours in a slow cooker, or simmer on stovetop for 20–25 minutes.
4. Once heated through and glazed, serve with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
For a spicier twist, add 1–2 tablespoons of hot pepper jelly or a dash of cayenne.
This recipe is easily doubled—just ensure your slow cooker can hold everything evenly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker or Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 meatballs
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: easy appetizer, grape jelly meatballs, party meatballs, 3 ingredient meatballs