These crockpot cocktail meatballs are a total lifesaver when you’re hosting a party, game day, or just need something easy and delicious.
They’re sweet, tangy, and saucy—just the way I like ‘em. Best part? You toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it.
Zero babysitting. Just pure, flavorful magic by dinnertime.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one brings back memories of my family potlucks—there was always a crockpot bubbling in the corner with meatballs swimming in that sweet, tangy sauce. They’d go fast. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug every time.
- Just 3 ingredients for the sauce
- You can use frozen meatballs—so easy!
- It’s great for feeding a crowd
- The flavor gets better the longer it cooks
Servings: 8
Cook Time: 3–4 hours on high or 6–8 hours on low
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (any kind, I like hickory or original)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Tools You’ll Need
- Black oval crockpot (slow cooker)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Medium mixing bowl (optional)
Pro Tips
- Don’t thaw the meatballs—keep them frozen when adding to the crockpot so they hold their shape and don’t overcook
- Use a good quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor—nothing too watery
- Stir halfway through if you can for even saucing, but it’s not mandatory
- If the sauce seems too thin at the end, remove the lid and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes to thicken it
- These are great served with toothpicks, but even better over mashed potatoes or rice
Substitutions and Variations
- Use cranberry sauce instead of grape jelly for a holiday twist
- Swap in turkey meatballs for a leaner option
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat
- Try honey BBQ sauce for extra sweetness
Make-Ahead Tips
Make the sauce ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. On the day of, just add it with the frozen meatballs to the crockpot.
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Add the Meatballs
Pour 2 lbs of frozen fully cooked meatballs into the crockpot. No need to thaw.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup grape jelly, 1 cup BBQ sauce, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until fully blended and smooth.
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Meatballs
Pour the sauce over the frozen meatballs in the crockpot, covering them as evenly as possible.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–8 hours until meatballs are hot all the way through and the sauce is thickened.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Give the meatballs a good stir so they’re evenly coated. Spoon them into a round serving bowl, garnish with chopped parsley if you want, and add toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Leftovers + Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat. They also freeze really well—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Macros (Per Serving – approx. 6 meatballs)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 15g
(Macros vary based on type of meatballs and BBQ sauce used)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Grape jelly adds sweetness and body to the sauce, while the acidity and smoky flavor from the BBQ sauce balance it out. The Worcestershire sauce adds umami and depth. The long, slow cook time gives the sauce time to thicken and infuse into the meatballs without overcooking them.
Common Mistakes
- Using raw meatballs: This recipe is made for fully cooked frozen meatballs—raw ones won’t cook properly in time
- Too much stirring: Stirring too often can break the meatballs, especially early in the cook
- Not enough sauce: Stick to the full cup of both jelly and BBQ sauce so everything stays coated and saucy
What to Serve With
- Toothpicks as an appetizer
- Mashed potatoes
- White rice or buttered noodles
- Dinner rolls
- A crisp salad for contrast
FAQ
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Sure! Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the crockpot.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but only if your crockpot is large enough. Don’t overfill it—there needs to be room for the sauce to circulate.
Can I cook it on the stovetop?
You can, but you’ll need to stir more often and keep it on low heat so the sugar doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
These crockpot cocktail meatballs are a crowd-pleaser every single time. They’re saucy, sweet, and super easy. Whether you’re serving them for a party or just need something low-stress and tasty, this recipe always hits. If you give it a try, drop a comment and let me know how it went—or share your favorite twist!