When it comes to appetizers, these crockpot meatballs with grape jelly and chili sauce are as easy as it gets! You only need 3 simple ingredients and the rest is totally hands-off while they simmer away in the crockpot. Bring these cocktail meatballs to any party and I guarantee you’ll leave with a clean dish.
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Recipes for cocktail meatballs started popping up in the 1960’s and have been a well-loved appetizer ever since. The first recipes were made to be cooked and kept warm in a chafing dish. But when the Crock-Pot came onto the scene in the early 70s, it made the recipe even easier and more popular.
The original recipe has changed a bit, but our collective love of cocktail meatballs is strong. If there is a crockpot on the appetizer table, there’s a good chance it’s full of these scrumptious party meatballs. And I'll be the first in line with my toothpick at the ready!
If you have some plain meatballs left over, save them for dinner. These Swedish meatballs over mashed potatoes are incredible. And this meatball orzo soup is the ultimate cozy meal.
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Why They’re Still A Hit
Quick & Easy: This is seriously the easiest appetizer recipe ever! You just toss everything in the crockpot, give it a stir, and let it do its thing for an hour or two.
Super Versatile: You really can’t go wrong with just 3 simple ingredients. Make your own meatballs or use frozen ones, and switch the sauce up to fit your preferences.
Crowd Favorite: This is the perfect appetizer for game day, potlucks, and holidays. You can make a huge batch of crockpot meatballs with grape jelly and chili sauce that will last all day!
You Only Need 3 Ingredients
- Meatballs: I have leftover homemade mini meatballs, so that’s what I’m using. Of course, frozen meatballs are an awesome grocery store shortcut and equally delicious here.
- Grape jelly: Any grape jelly will work in this sweet and savory sauce, so feel free to use whatever you like.
- Chili sauce: Some brands of chili sauce are spicy, so choose one that fits your preferences. Heinz chili sauce is a popular sweet brand while Sprouts store brand has a nice little kick.
Let’s Make Party Meatballs
Keep scrolling for the full recipe card and measurements. We’ll start here with a quick overview!
Mix the sauce:
- Whisk the grape jelly and chili sauce together in your crockpot.
- Note: it’s okay if the jelly isn’t totally smooth; it’ll melt as the sauce heats.
Add the meatballs:
- Toss the meatballs into the crockpot and stir to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Cook low and slow:
- Cook the meatballs on low for 1-2 hours until they’re nice and hot.
- Turn the heat off or keep your crockpot on the “warm” setting and enjoy this delicious appetizer!
My Number One Tip
Be careful not to overcook the meatballs since they heat up pretty quickly. Once they’re done, switch your crockpot to “warm” or turn it off. You can always turn it back on to warm the meatballs up, but overcooking can make them tough.
Popular Variations
BBQ Sauce – Instead of chili sauce, try a combination of grape jelly and barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky moment.
Lil Smokies – Swap the meatballs for little smokies and make another crowd favorite: cocktail sausages!
Jellies and Jams- If grape jelly isn’t your thing, this recipe works with any sweet jelly or jam. Blackberry or strawberry jam, orange marmalade, or even canned cranberry sauce would be delicious.
How to Serve Cocktail Meatballs
These saucy little meatballs are best as-is, straight out of the crockpot. I like to serve them with other sweet and savory appetizers, like honey-whipped goat cheese and homemade crostini.
Need a main dish? Serve the cocktail meatballs over rice or egg noodles with a drizzle of extra sauce. Add a side of roasted broccoli and cauliflower and you have a complete meal.
The Stovetop Method
If you don’t have a crockpot, no worries! You can totally make this easy recipe on the stove top, too. Combine everything in a large pot or skillet and simmer over medium heat until the meatballs are warmed through.
I actually prefer this method when I’m making a smaller batch because it’s just as easy and a little quicker than slow cooker cocktail meatballs.
Storage Instructions
Let meatballs cool to room temperature first. Then, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze up to 4 months!
You can reheat them in the crockpot on the “warm” setting or in a skillet over medium-low heat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin.
Frequently Asked Questions
My mini meatball recipe uses plenty of binders including eggs and breadcrumbs to make sure they stay together. Minimal stirring will also help keep the meatballs intact once they’re in the sauce.
You sure can! Use any homemade or pre-cooked meatballs you like, including ground turkey or chicken, lean ground beef, or Italian meatballs.
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Crockpot Meatballs With Grape Jelly And Chili Sauce
Equipment
- 1 Large crockpot *Mine is 7 quarts
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cooked frozen meatballs *store-bought or homemade
- 1 12oz jar chili sauce *see note below
- 1 10oz jar grape jelly *see note below
Recipe notes:
Chili sauce: Some brands have quite the kick. If you don't like spicy food I recommend a sweeter chili sauce. Kroger store brand is pretty mild. Jelly: If you don't like grape jelly, you can use any another flavor!Instructions
- Add chili sauce and grape jelly to a large crockpot and whisk. It's okay if jelly chunks remain, they'll melt as the mixture heats.
- Stir in meatballs and mix well until each one is coated.
- Cook on low for 1-2 hours until meatballs are heated through. Turn heat off or place on the "warm" setting if your crockpot has one. Don't overcook the meatballs or they'll become tough.
- Enjoy!
Stovetop instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large skillet or pot. Simmer over medium heat until meatballs are warmed through, stirring occasionally.
How to store & reheat:
- Allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days (or freeze up to 4 months). Reheat meatballs in your crockpot on "warm" or in a skillet on the stovetop.
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