These 3-Ingredient Crockpot Grape Jelly meatballs are slow-cooked to perfection in a tangy, sweet sauce with only 5 minutes of prep time. Perfect for parties or as a hearty appetizer, this easy-to-make recipe will leave guests craving more.
This is one of those easy but delicious recipes everybody raves about that you need in your recipe collection! 3-ingredient Crockpot Meatballs or, as they're often called, Grape Jelly Meatballs are fantastic as a main dish or the easiest appetizer recipe.
When we don't have time to wait for the slow cooker, no problem. Make Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs.
Another super bowl party favorite is Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs!
If you're new to your crockpot, read these Crockpot Tips and Tricks!
Jump to:
Why You'll Love the Recipe
- SIMPLE & EASY. It's so simple. Throw the 3 ingredients in the crockpot, wait three hours, and these slow-cooked, sweet & sour meatballs turn out amazing every time!
- SWEET & TANGY SAUCE. There is something magical about the sweet & savory sauce. It hits just right, and you can't stop eating these meatballs!
- FEEDS A CROWD. We make crockpot grape jelly meatballs for holiday parties, potlucks, game days, or family get-togethers because it feeds a crowd nicely.
Ingredient Notes
This is seriously ONE EASY RECIPE! There are only 3 ingredients!
- GRAPE JELLY - Any brand will do!
- SWEET CHILI SAUCE – Yep, Heinz chili sauce. Usually found in the condiment aisle at the grocery store. Don't worry; this recipe is not spicy!
- MEATBALLS - The beauty of this recipe is that you can use any meatball. We find the big bag of meatballs from Costco a good option because they're delicious and economical. You can also purchase a bag from the grocery store or make your own ground beef meatballs. Be sure to cook homemade meatballs before placing them in the slow cooker. Turkey meatballs work in the recipe as well!
Find the full ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.
PRO TIPS: If you want a spicy sauce, add a dash of cayenne pepper before cooking your meatballs. If you don’t have it or can’t find chili sauce, use ketchup with a little chili powder.
Variations
- Grape Jelly & BBQ Meatballs - this recipe swaps the chili sauce for BBQ sauce.
- Apricot Meatballs - use apricot preserves in place of the grape jelly.
- Orange Meatballs - replace the grape jelly with orange marmalade.
- Cranberry Meatballs - instead of grape jelly, use cranberry sauce. So good!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Ready for a simple yet oh, so good recipe? Let's get to it.
- Make the sauce. Combine grape jelly and chili sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir sauce ingredients to combine. Cook until warm, like 5-10 minutes. When in a hurry, we've skipped this step, and they still come out great!
- Place ingredients in the crock. Place meatballs in your slow cooker (a 6-quart will do) and top with grape jelly sauce. Stir to coat them evenly.
- Cook. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook your grape jelly chili sauce meatballs on LOW for 3-4 hours! Enjoy your delicious crock pot meatball recipe!
PRO TIP: If short on time, you can also cook your meatballs on high for about 2 hours.
Slow Cooker Recipes You Need to Try
Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Expert Tips
- MAKE-AHEAD - You can make the meatballs the day before. Just reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
- BBQ SAUCE - Make this grape jelly meatball recipe with barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce. If we make it that way, we always use Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ Sauce.
- MEATBALLS - You can use frozen meatballs or homemade meatballs in this recipe. Just cook homemade meatballs first.
- DOUBLING THE RECIPE - You can make a double batch with a large slow cooker (like an 8-quart).
- KIELBASA GRAPE JELLY MEATBALLS - A reader recently told us this recipe is also wonderful using sliced kielbasa! Yum!
How to Serve
If desired, serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions. You can serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer or as a main dish with rice, noodles, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
Honestly, who needs a plate? We eat these slow cooker meatballs right out of the serving dish!
How to Store
REFRIGERATOR: Store any leftover easy grape jelly meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
FREEZER: Cool the meatball completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag—label and date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Place meatballs in the refrigerator overnight to defrost.
You can place them in your slow cooker to reheat or on the stovetop if you're in a rush.
Where to Find Chili Sauce
If you're unsure where to find the chili sauce, try looking in the Ketchup aisle at the grocery store. And Costco is a great place to get a big bag of tasty frozen meatballs. The Italian style meatballs work just fine.
Recipe FAQs
This recipe is made for a 6-quart crockpot. If you have a smaller slow cooker, cut the recipe in half.
We like Heinz Chili Sauce in 3-ingredient crockpot meatballs. It's not too sweet and not too spicey.
Yes! That's using Little Smokies is a delicious idea. However, I don't know the quantity for the recipe, but I recommend staying around 32 ounces to keep the proportions right.
This slow cooker recipe is great with Italian sausage or kielbasa. The flavors come together perfectly.
More Meatball Recipes
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Printable Recipe
3-Ingredient Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- 6-quart Crock Pot
- Small pot or saucepan
- Spatula or cooking spoon
Ingredients
- 1 32 oz jar grape jelly
- 2 12 oz bottles tomato-based chili sauce (like Heinz)
- 5 pounds pre-cooked cocktail size meatballs
Instructions
- Make the sauce. Combine grape jelly and chili sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir sauce ingredients to combine. Cook until warm, like 5-10 minutes. When in a hurry, we've skipped this step, and they still come out great!
- Place Ingredients in the crock. Place meatballs in your slow cooker (a 6-quart) and top with grape jelly sauce. Stir to coat them evenly.
- Cook. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook your grape jelly chili sauce meatballs on LOW for 3-4 hours! Enjoy your delicious crock pot meatball recipe!
Video
Notes
-
- BBQ SAUCE - You can make this grape jelly meatball recipe with barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce.
- MEATBALLS - Use frozen meatballs or homemade meatballs in this recipe. Both are delish.
- DOUBLING THE RECIPE - You can make a double batch with a large slow cooker (like an 8-quart).
-
- KIELBASA GRAPE JELLY MEATBALLS - A reader recently told us this recipe is also wonderful using sliced kielbasa! Yum!
- STORAGE - Store any leftover easy grape jelly meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
This post was published in March 2019 and updated on June 15, 2023. This post contains affiliate links. Disclosure policy here.
Krissy Allori says
I love these meatballs. They are my go to potluck dish to take. Quick and easy and always a hit.
Erin Henry says
These meatballs are one of the best recipes to make to a potluck! They never disappoint!
Kristyn says
I am all about simple, easy meals, that taste delicious!! My kids love these! They eat them alone or with pasta.
Erin Henry says
They make a great main meal or an appetizer. The flavors just work so well together!
wilhelmina says
These meatballs are so easy and always a party favorite! Thanks for reminding me how yummy they are!
Erin Henry says
Yes, this recipe is an evergreen one that works for so many occasions. They are just so good!
darlene olson says
These are absolutely delicious! We all love them at our house! So easy and yet so very good!!
Erin says
I know!! We just love this recipe! Enjoy!
Julie says
Try it with kielbasa. It's fantastic!!! I've been making this for 25 years ????
Erin says
I love this idea, Julie!! Thanks for sharing it. I'm sure it is VERY delicious! Happy New Year!
Marva | sunSPARKLEshine says
I can't wait to try this the next time I have friends over. It looks so simple and tasty. Must be a real hit!
Thanks for sharing.
Erin says
It's a sure bet! It's been the hit of every party/potluck we've taken it to. Thanks for stopping by, Marva.
Nikki says
Erin, I've never made these and if you would tell me about the ingredients and not show me the recipe I would thank you were messing with me. Grape jelly and chili sauce ketchup? You know I really have to try this now, cuz this sounds kind of amazing. Either that or this is an early April Fool's Day post. LOL I used to work with a woman who would use orange marmalade in her meatballs, but I've never heard of using grape jelly.
I absolutely love my crockpot and I love quick and fast, so this is getting pinned and stumbled so that I remember to make this for our next get-together. I am really intrigued.
Erin says
You're so funny, Nikki! I thought the same thing...grape jelly, what?? But trust me it works and it's g-o-o-d! It's so simple, but tastes like a million bucks! Enjoy!
sherry says
These look so good and easy! I have not ever put chili sauce in my meatballs, but I bet it makes them taste wonderful. My family would love them!
Erin says
Yeah, I thought the ingredients were a little interesting the first time, but after that, I was hooked! Enjoy, Sherry!
Angela says
I'm always looking for simple dishes to make! Thanks for the great recipe!
Erin says
Yes, this is definitely simple and easy. And the flavor is great. I hope you family enjoys them, Angela!
Marilyn says
I use grape jelly in my crock pot ribs! I bet it is wonderful with the meat balls! Pinned and shared. Thanks for linking up at #ThursdayFavoriteThings! I hope you will join me Monday at #OverTheMoon!
Marilyn says
Added you to Recipe Sharing board and yummed! Thank you for sharing this delicious recipe at The Recipe Sharing Pin and Yum Party! I hope to see you next week. Pinned and Yummed.
Please visit Thursday Favorite Things for more sharing fun!
Lindsay says
OMG I'm obsessed with this! I can't wait to try it out this weekend. I LOVE LOVE LOVE crockpot recipes! Thanks so much for sharing with us at Merry Monday!
Erin says
This recipe is super easy and super good! I'm so glad you're going to give it a try. Let me know how it goes, Lindsay.
Chellile says
I've seen these with ketchup, but not chili sauce! What a great idea. Trying these at my next party!!
Erin says
These are so good. The chili sauce gives then a little tang!
Kathryn says
Erin, this post is so timely. My little girl just brought me her plastic spaghetti and meatball toy meal from her play kitchen. We talked about how it would be fun to make meatballs. Awesome! Time to buy grape jelly. 🙂