Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Grape Jelly BBQ Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that you can easily make in your crockpot. With just three ingredients and five minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a simple family dinner. The sweet and tangy flavors blend beautifully, making these meatballs an irresistible treat. Plus, they can be served as an appetizer or over rice for a hearty main dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients, you can whip up these meatballs in just five minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer or serve over rice for a filling meal.
• Crowd Favorite: These meatballs are guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using a crockpot means easy cooking and fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of grape jelly and BBQ sauce creates a unique flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready makes it easier to focus on creating delicious Crockpot BBQ Meatballs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for even cooking and allows you to set it and forget it until mealtime.
• Medium bowl: A simple mixing bowl helps combine the sauce ingredients before adding the meatballs.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the sauce.

Ingredients

Grape Jelly BBQ Meatballs are easy to make in the crock pot with only 3 ingredients and 5 minutes to prep! Doesn’t get better than that.

For the Sauce

• 1 (18-ounce) jar grape jelly
• 1 (18-ounce) jar BBQ sauce

For the Meatballs

• 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs (about 50)

How to Make Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Step 1: Combine Sauce Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl or directly in the base of your slow cooker, combine grape jelly and BBQ sauce.
2. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Add Meatballs

1. Add the frozen fully cooked meatballs into the sauce mixture.
2. Stir until all meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook

1. Set your slow cooker to high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours.
2. Once cooked, turn the slow cooker to warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve these delicious meatballs as an appetizer or over rice.
2. Top with green onions if desired for extra flavor!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Crockpot BBQ Meatballs! They are not just easy but also delightful with every bite!

How to Serve Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to suit any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal dinners. Here are some tasty serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them in small cups or on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Top with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

In Mini Subs

• Load the meatballs into small sub rolls for delightful mini sandwiches.
• Add pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.

With Pasta

• Toss the meatballs with cooked pasta and extra BBQ sauce for a filling dish.
• Sprinkle with parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.

On Sliders

• Serve the meatballs on slider buns for a fun twist.
• Add coleslaw on top for crunch and flavor.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

To ensure your Crockpot BBQ Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality ingredients: Select high-quality grape jelly and BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
• Thaw if necessary: If you prefer, thaw the frozen meatballs before cooking to reduce cooking time.
• Stir occasionally: During cooking, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them evenly in sauce.
• Adjust cook time: Keep an eye on your slow cooker; cooking times may vary based on your model.
• Add spices: Mix in garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth of flavor.
• Garnish before serving: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot BBQ Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy, creamy side that balances the richness of the meatballs.
2. Cornbread – Soft, sweet cornbread complements BBQ flavors beautifully and is perfect for soaking up sauce.
3. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans make an excellent accompaniment to BBQ dishes.
4. Macaroni Salad – This cold dish adds a refreshing contrast and is a picnic favorite.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies add color and nutrition alongside your meal.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying texture and are perfect for dipping in sauce.
7. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf made with herbs adds flavor without overpowering the meatballs.
8. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is great for mopping up any leftover BBQ sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot BBQ Meatballs is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the mixing step – Ensure you mix the grape jelly and BBQ sauce thoroughly before adding the meatballs. This ensures even coating and flavor.
• Not using frozen meatballs – While fresh meatballs are tasty, using frozen ones saves prep time and makes this recipe quick and easy.
• Overcooking the meatballs – Cooking them too long can make them tough. Stick to the recommended cooking times for best results.
• Ignoring serving suggestions – Enjoying these meatballs as appetizers is great, but consider serving them over rice with green onions for a delightful main dish.
• Choosing the wrong BBQ sauce – The flavor of your BBQ sauce can dramatically change your dish. Opt for a sauce that balances sweetness with tanginess to complement the grape jelly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot BBQ Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat meatballs in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place meatballs in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a bit of sauce until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot BBQ Meatballs.

Can I use homemade meatballs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use homemade meatballs! Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How do I make Crockpot Bbq Meatballs spicier?

To add some heat, mix in hot sauce or red pepper flakes with the grape jelly and BBQ sauce before adding the meatballs.

What should I serve with Crockpot Bbq Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even served on slider buns as mini-sandwiches!

How do I know when Crockpot Bbq Meatballs are done?

When heated through, they should be steaming hot and easily pulled apart with a fork. Aim for internal temperatures around 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are not just easy to make; they are also incredibly versatile! They work perfectly as appetizers or main dishes. Feel free to customize them by adjusting the sweetness of the sauce or adding spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how simple and delicious it is!