Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Crockpot Bbq Meatballs are the perfect dish for any gathering! With their sweet and tangy flavor, these meatballs are a hit at parties, potlucks, and family dinners. They are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only three ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or over rice for a satisfying main dish, these meatballs will surely please your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to cook.
• Minimal Ingredients: This recipe uses only three simple ingredients, making it easy to whip up on short notice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer or serve over rice for a hearty main course.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of grape jelly and BBQ sauce creates a unique taste that everyone loves.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Let your crockpot do the work while you relax or focus on other tasks.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Bbq Meatballs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld together beautifully over time.
• Medium mixing bowl: A bowl is essential for combining ingredients before cooking, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Stirring spoon: Use this to mix your meatballs thoroughly in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

Ingredients

Grape Jelly BBQ Meatballs require just three simple ingredients that come together perfectly in your slow cooker.

Main Ingredients

• 1 (18-ounce) jar grape jelly
• 1 (18-ounce) jar BBQ sauce
• 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs (about 50)

How to Make Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl or directly in the base of your slow cooker, combine the grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Stir well until fully blended.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

Add the frozen fully cooked meatballs into the sauce mixture. Gently stir until all meatballs are coated evenly with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook Your Meatballs

Set your slow cooker to high and cook for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours. For best results, turn the slow cooker to warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy your Crockpot Bbq Meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks or serve them over rice topped with green onions for a delightful main dish.

With only five minutes of preparation time and satisfying results, these meatballs are sure to be a favorite at any occasion!

How to Serve Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Crockpot BBQ meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a weeknight meal, these savory meatballs will delight your guests.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Over Rice

• Spoon the meatballs and sauce over steamed rice for a hearty main dish.
• Top with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

In Sliders

• Place meatballs in mini slider buns for a delicious handheld treat.
• Add pickles or coleslaw for crunch and extra flavor.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Create a colorful platter with bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.

On Pasta

• Toss the meatballs with cooked spaghetti or penne pasta.
• Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for a fusion twist on classic pasta dishes.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

To make sure your Crockpot BBQ meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Frozen Meatballs: Start with frozen fully cooked meatballs to save time and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Quantity: Feel free to add more grape jelly or BBQ sauce based on your taste preference or desired sauciness.
• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: Ensure all meatballs are well-coated by stirring the mixture well before cooking.
• Cook on High for Quick Meals: If you’re short on time, cooking on high can help you enjoy this dish in just 2 hours.
• Keep Them Warm: Use the ‘warm’ setting after cooking to keep the meatballs ready to serve without overcooking them.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

Crockpot BBQ meatballs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a selection of delicious options to complement your meal.

1. Coleslaw
   A refreshing salad that adds crunch and balances the richness of the meatballs.

2. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce while adding a comforting touch to your meal.

3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn enhances the flavors of the BBQ sauce, making it a great summer side.

4. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad provides a hearty contrast to the tangy BBQ flavors of the meatballs.

5. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the dish’s richness.

6. Baked Beans
   A classic pairing that complements BBQ flavors while providing additional protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Bbq Meatballs is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the sauce mix: Not combining the grape jelly and BBQ sauce properly can lead to uneven flavor. Always mix these ingredients thoroughly before adding meatballs.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking for too long can dry out the meatballs. Stick to the recommended cooking times for best results.
• Using non-frozen meatballs: Fresh meatballs may not cook evenly in a slow cooker. Always use frozen fully cooked meatballs for optimal flavor and texture.
• Neglecting to stir occasionally: Not stirring the mixture can cause some meatballs to stick or burn. Stir occasionally during cooking for even coating and warming.
• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: The sweetness of grape jelly can be overwhelming if not balanced with additional spices. Consider adding garlic powder or pepper to enhance the flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bbq Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Crockpot Bbq Meatballs made of?

Crockpot Bbq Meatballs are primarily made of frozen fully cooked meatballs, grape jelly, and BBQ sauce, creating a sweet and savory dish.

Can I customize Crockpot Bbq Meatballs?

Yes! You can add spices or switch up sauces based on your taste preferences. Try adding chili powder or switching to a different fruit-based sauce.

How long do I need to cook Crockpot Bbq Meatballs?

Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. Always check that they are heated through before serving.

Are there any alternatives to grape jelly in Crockpot Bbq Meatballs?

You can substitute grape jelly with other fruit preserves like apricot or peach for different flavors while maintaining sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bbq Meatballs are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that make them perfect as appetizers or main dishes. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily, creating different flavor profiles each time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious meatballs at your next gathering!

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Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-4 hours
• Total Time: 7 minute
• Yield: About 10 servings (50 meatballs) 1x
• Category: Appetizer/Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering, combining a sweet and tangy flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds. With only three simple ingredients, these meatballs are effortless to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute events or weeknight dinners. Just toss frozen fully cooked meatballs in a mix of grape jelly and BBQ sauce, let your slow cooker work its magic, and enjoy tender, flavorful bites that can be served as appetizers or over rice for a filling meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for an easy dish to impress your family, these savory meatballs are sure to delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (18-ounce) jar grape jelly
• 1 (18-ounce) jar BBQ sauce
• 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs (about 50)

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Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl or directly in the slow cooker, combine grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Stir until well blended.
2. Add frozen fully cooked meatballs and gently stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
3. Set your slow cooker to high and cook for 2-3 hours or on low for 3-4 hours. Keep warm until ready to serve.
4. Serve as appetizers with toothpicks or over rice topped with green onions.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 meatballs (about 100g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Feel free to adjust the amount of grape jelly or BBQ sauce based on your taste preference. For an added kick, consider mixing in some chili powder or garlic powder before cooking. These meatballs can also be enjoyed in sliders or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.