This recipe is one of those no-fail, set-it-and-forget-it favorites that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a lazy dinner night. It’s sweet, tangy, and savory all at once. And the best part? You only need three ingredients. Toss it all in the slow cooker, and you’re done. It’s ridiculously easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve been making these meatballs since college when I needed something that looked impressive but required zero effort. Over the years, it’s become my go-to party recipe. My friends ask for it every time we get together. It’s the easiest way to make something that tastes like you tried really hard—even when you didn’t.
- You only need 3 ingredients
- The slow cooker does all the work
- It’s perfect for feeding a crowd
- You can keep it warm and serve it straight from the pot
Servings:
Serves 8–10 as an appetizer or 4–6 as a main dish
Cook Time:
3–4 hours on high or 6–7 hours on low
What You’ll Need
- 32 oz frozen fully cooked meatballs
- 18 oz grape jelly (about 1½ cups)
- 18 oz BBQ sauce (about 1½ cups – use your favorite!)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Pro Tips
- Don’t thaw the meatballs first—just throw them in frozen. They hold their shape better.
- Use a tangy BBQ sauce for more flavor contrast with the sweet jelly.
- Stir halfway through cooking to make sure everything gets evenly coated.
- Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- This dish keeps warm well in the crockpot—great for parties.
Tools You’ll Need
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Small knife and cutting board (if using fresh parsley)
- Serving bowl or plate
Substitutions & Variations
- Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef
- Swap grape jelly for cranberry sauce or apricot preserves
- Try different BBQ sauces: smoky, spicy, or honey
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a little zip
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix the BBQ sauce and grape jelly ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Freeze cooked meatballs in the sauce for up to 2 months—just reheat in the crockpot on low
Instructions
Step 1: Add Frozen Meatballs to Crockpot
Pour the full 32 oz bag of frozen fully cooked meatballs into the bottom of your crockpot. Spread them out so they’re evenly layered.
Step 2: Add Grape Jelly
Scoop in 1½ cups (about 18 oz) of grape jelly over the meatballs. Dollop it evenly so it melts down into the gaps as it heats.
Step 3: Pour in BBQ Sauce
Pour 1½ cups (18 oz) of BBQ sauce evenly over the meatballs and jelly. Use a rubber spatula to gently spread the sauce so everything is covered.
Step 4: Stir Everything Together
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently mix the meatballs with the jelly and BBQ sauce. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just get everything coated.
Step 5: Cook on Low or High
Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and thick. Stir once halfway through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When ready to serve, stir once more. Transfer to a bowl or platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the crockpot or on the stove
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Grape jelly gives the sauce its smooth, sticky texture and sweetness, while the BBQ sauce adds tang and spice. As the frozen meatballs heat up slowly, they release moisture that blends with the jelly and BBQ, turning into a perfectly balanced glaze. The slow cooker lets everything cook gently, so the flavors really soak in.
Common Mistakes
- Using raw meatballs – This recipe needs fully cooked frozen meatballs. Raw won’t cook properly in time.
- Not stirring halfway – It helps coat everything and prevents burning at the edges.
- Choosing a too-sweet BBQ sauce – Look for one with some tang or spice for better balance.
What to Serve With
- Toothpicks for appetizers
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice or egg noodles
- Slider buns for mini sandwiches
- Roasted veggies or coleslaw on the side
FAQ
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes, as long as they’re fully cooked before going into the slow cooker.
Can I double the recipe?
Totally! Just make sure your crockpot is big enough.
Do I have to use grape jelly?
Nope! You can use any sweet fruit preserve—apricot, cranberry, even orange marmalade.
How do I keep them warm for a party?
Just turn your slow cooker to the “Warm” setting after cooking. Stir occasionally.
Is this gluten-free?
Only if your meatballs and BBQ sauce are certified gluten-free—check the labels.