Cocktail Meatballs with Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce

Need a quick and easy appetizer? These 4-ingredient slow cooker cocktail meatballs are the easiest on the menu! Or serve them for a quick weeknight meal with rice and a veggie!

I have to admit, when I first heard about grape jelly chili sauce meatballs, I was more than a little skeptical. The combination of flavors just didn’t sound like they would work together. Oh, but they do!

Grape jelly chili sauce meatballs may not have the most conventional mix of ingredients, but their unique flavor profile has won over many hearts and taste buds. You’ve surely had them at a holiday party or office potluck! They have become one of my favorite crockpot go-tos during the Christmas season, and they’re a hit for football days, too.

While the origins of the recipe are unclear, it’s easy to imagine a creative home cook experimenting with different pantry staples to create something special. As a result, we now have this grape jelly meatball recipe that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy.

As I’ve introduced these meatballs to friends and family, they’ve become quite popular in my circle. I’ve even started tweaking the recipe to create different variations, like using apricot or raspberry jelly instead of grape. It’s a fun way to personalize the dish and make it my own.

What to serve with grape jelly chili sauce meatballs

When it comes to serving grape jelly chili sauce meatballs, they are always a hit as a party appetizer. Just place a toothpick in each meatball and serve them all on a tray, or keep them warm in a slow cooker and let guests help themselves throughout the event. See the FAQs for more creative serving options.

While I always think of these as favorite party apps, you can also turn these meatballs into a satisfying meal by serving them over rice or with a side of green beans. They also make a perfect hearty lunch when paired with crusty bread and a simple green salad. The combination of flavors is so well-balanced that it complements a variety of sides and accompaniments. You might be surprised with what you can come up with!

As for beverages, serve them with cold beers or fruity cocktails like sangria for a casual gathering like a game day party. If you’re hosting a holiday event, they’ll go nicely with a festive punch, mulled wine, or the warm, fruity flavor of traditional wassail. Desserts that pair well with this are light and refreshing to balance the robust flavor of the meatballs. Think lemon bars, fruit skewers, or my easy, moist lemon loaf.

Ingredients needed to make grape jelly chili sauce meatballs

While these meatballs may seem fancy, making grape jelly meatballs is so easy, and they only require a few simple ingredients:

• Frozen Cooked Meatballs: Simply choose your preferred size and protein — you’ll see premade ground beef, ground pork, chicken or turkey meatballs available at most grocery stores.
• Grape Jelly: Brings a touch of sweetness and can be substituted with other jellies or preserves.
• Barbeque Sauce: Adds a tangy, smoky flavor. Stir in your desired amount to control the level of tanginess.
• Chili Sauce: Creates a mild kick of heat and a bit of sweetness. Just adjust the amount to your liking for a spicier or milder taste.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Gives a little pop of freshness and color, and can be substituted with other herbs or omitted.
  

Equipment Needed:

1. Slow cooker

Frequently asked questions about cocktail meatballs with grape jelly chili sauce

Whenever I bring these to parties, people love them! Besides requests for the recipe, here are a few common questions I get with answers. If you have a question I haven’t covered, let me know in the comments. I will reply as soon as I can.

Do meatballs get more tender the longer they cook in sauce?

Yes, they do. Cooking meatballs in the sauce allows them to absorb the flavors and become more tender over time.

How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart?

This recipe calls for frozen meatballs, so we skip that problem! However, if you are using homemade meatballs, be sure to use a good binder like breadcrumbs or eggs when forming the meatballs, and be gentle when mixing the ingredients and shaping them.

What is the best way to store these meatballs after they are prepared?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I freeze cocktail meatballs in sauce?

Per the last question, you certainly can freeze the cooked meatballs in the sauce. Place leftovers in an airtight container or bag in the freezer. Just thaw them and slowly reheat them over low heat on the stove or in an oven dish when you’re ready to serve.

What are some creative ways to serve these meatballs for convenient snacking at parties?

Meatballs are a party favorite and yet no one wants messy hands! Make them easy for guests by serving them in individual portion cups with toothpicks, on a skewer with cheese cubes and cherry tomatoes, or even in a slider bun for a mini meatball sandwich.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes To Try

If you like this recipe for cocktail meatballs with grape jelly chili sauce, you will love these other yummy recipes.

• Best Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
• BLT Loaded Tater Tots
• Bacon Cracker Appetizers
• Cheesy Bacon Spinach Dip
• Cheeseburger Sliders