Crock Pot Grape Jelly Chili Sauce Meatballs Recipe

Grape jelly chili sauce meatballs crockpot style are one of those ridiculously easy recipes that taste way better than 3 ingredients have any right to. The sweet, tangy, mildly spicy meatballs are protein-packed and they work just as well for a party appetizer as they do for an easy dinner when you need something everyone will eat.

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The backstory.

Grape jam chili sauce meatballs are one of those old-school party foods that never really went out of style, and I'm perfectly happy about that. The grape jelly and chili sauce combination might sound a little strange if you've never tried it, but somehow it just works. I love keeping this recipe in my back pocket for holidays, game days, and those nights when dinner needs to happen without a whole lot of thought.

This grape jelly meatballs slow cooker recipe is a must-make.

• The ultimate dump-and-go dish. Toss everything straight into your slow cooker, give it a quick stir, and let it work its magic. That's it! No prep, no stress, just easy comfort food.
• Perfect for any crowd. Whether it's game day, a family potluck, or an easy weeknight dinner, these sweet-and-savory meatballs are always a hit. Serve them straight from the crock for parties or spoon them over rice or noodles for a quick meal.
• Sweet, tangy, and totally addictive. The combo of grape jelly and chili sauce hits all the right notes. They're sticky, saucy, and have just the right amount of spice. One bite, and you'll see why these crockpot meatballs disappear fast!

Let's talk flavor and texture.

These meatballs are tender and juicy with a thick, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. Grape jelly gives the sauce its fruity sweetness while the chili sauce adds tomatoey tang and a little zip. Together, you get that classic sweet and savory flavor that makes these meatballs such a party favorite.

What you'll need.

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Here are the ingredients you will need to make this grape jelly chili sauce meatballs crockpot recipe:

• Frozen Meatballs: Stick with homestyle, original, or traditional meatballs rather than Italian-style meatballs so the seasonings don't compete with the sauce.
• Grape Jelly: Use any preferred brand or kind of grape jelly. Use no sugar added, and add your desired artificial sweetener for taste if you would like.
• Chili Sauce: You can use any brand or spice level of sauce desired. (I used Heinz Chili Sauce)

For exact ingredient quantities, please see the recipe card below!

How to make this slow cooker meatballs grape jelly recipe.

Here's an overview on how to make this recipe. See the recipe card below for complete instructions. Enjoy!

1. Add the frozen meatballs to a 4- to 6-quart crock pot.
2. Pour the chili sauce evenly over the meatballs, then spoon the grape jelly over the top.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
4. Give everything a good stir so the meatballs are coated in that sweet and savory sauce.
5. They're ready when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

Make it your way.

Here are some ideas for customizing your crockpot meatballs in grape jelly and chili sauce.

• Use jellied cranberry sauce in place of grape jelly. You could also use whole-berry cranberry sauce if desired.
• Barbecue sauce can be used in place of chili sauce. To get that sweet and spicy taste use a spicier barbecue sauce.
• Make your own fresh meatballs in place of premade ones. Be sure to sear the meatballs before putting them into the crockpot to prevent them from breaking apart.
• Exchange sweet chili sauce instead of regular Heinz chili sauce if you want a mildly spicy and sweet sauce.
• Add extra spice by adding chopped jalapeno peppers or your favorite pepper variety. You could also add crushed red pepper flake if you are looking to add more spice.

How to serve them.

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Grape jelly chili sauce meatballs crockpot style can go straight from party snack to dinner depending on what you've got planned.

• Keep slow cooker meatballs with grape jelly and chili sauce warm in the crock pot and serve with toothpicks for an easy appetizer.
• Tuck the meatballs into small buns with provolone cheese for quick sliders.
• Spoon the meatballs and plenty of sauce over hot rice and add steamed vegetables for an easy dinner.
• Add them to a party spread alongside other warm appetizers and finger foods.
• Pack leftovers with rice and vegetables for easy meal prep lunches.

Kori's tips.

• Use homestyle or original-flavor frozen meatballs in this recipe. It is not suggested to use Italian-style frozen meatballs as the sauce would not compliment the flavors.
• Easily double this recipe for larger parties if needed! I have doubled and tripled this before, and have turned out perfect.
• I suggest using a crockpot liner if you have one with this saucy recipe. It helps prevent sticking to the crockpot and makes cleanup super easy; no scrubbing is required!

📌 Be sure to save this pin to Pinterest for later!

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