Name: Easy Grape Jelly Meatballs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 oz frozen fully cooked turkey meatballs; 1 cup grape jelly (e.g., Smuckers); 1½ cups barbecue sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s); 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce

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These Easy Grape Jelly Meatballs are the ultimate party appetizer—sweet, tangy, and a little bit spicy. Made with just four ingredients and slow-cooked to juicy perfection, this classic recipe is perfect for game day, holidays, or any gathering where crowd-pleasing bites are a must. Dump everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe couldn’t be easier—just toss in frozen meatballs, a few pantry staples, and walk away. The combination of grape jelly and barbecue sauce creates a rich, sweet, and smoky glaze that clings to each meatball. The chili garlic sauce adds a gentle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need an easy appetizer for your next gathering, these meatballs deliver every time.

Easy Grape Jelly Meatballs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

32 oz frozen fully cooked turkey meatballs
1 cup grape jelly
1½ cups barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce

Directions

Add the frozen meatballs, grape jelly, barbecue sauce, and chili garlic sauce to the base of a slow cooker.
Stir everything together until the meatballs are evenly coated in the sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thickened. (Larger meatballs may need 4–5 hours.)
Stir once halfway through cooking for even heating.
Keep warm in the slow cooker until ready to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 (as an appetizer)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220–250 kcal per serving

Variations

Sweeter Version: Omit the chili garlic sauce entirely for a purely sweet glaze.
Spicier Version: Add extra chili garlic sauce or a dash of hot sauce.
Meat Options: Use beef, pork, or chicken meatballs instead of turkey.
Homemade Meatballs: Use homemade cooked meatballs—just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the slow cooker.
Different Jelly: Try cranberry, apple, or apricot preserves for a twist on the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Freezing: Freeze cooled meatballs in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of meatballs work best?

Fully cooked frozen turkey meatballs are recommended, but any fully cooked meatballs will work—beef, chicken, or plant-based.

Can I use a different jelly?

Yes, grape jelly is traditional, but other fruit preserves like cranberry, apricot, or raspberry can be used for a unique twist.

Is the chili garlic sauce very spicy?

It adds a mild kick. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a sweeter, milder flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Make the full batch, refrigerate, and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen over time.

Can I cook this on high?

Yes, you can cook on high for about 2 hours if you’re short on time, but low heat yields better flavor and texture.

What should I serve these with?

They’re great on their own or served with toothpicks. You can also serve them over rice, mashed potatoes, or slider buns for a meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

How do I keep them warm for a party?

Use the “warm” setting on your slow cooker and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?

Nope—this recipe is designed to work with frozen meatballs. Just dump and go.

Conclusion

These Easy Grape Jelly Meatballs are a classic appetizer with a bold twist. Sweet, sticky, and perfectly tender, they’re made with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for an easy slow cooker recipe, this crowd-pleasing dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.