This Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe is perfect for all festivities and a delicious new addition to your collection of favorite meatball recipes!
I’m back with another delicious and creative meatball recipe for you to try! If you liked some of the other recipes I’ve shared so far on this blog, it’s time to whip up something new with these grape jelly meatballs. I’m quickly building a reputation here at FFF as the meatball maniac, but I can’t help it! Meatballs are so tasty, versatile, and easy to prepare in so many ways—including with jelly!
Now, I know fruity-flavored meatballs may sound outside the box, but don’t knock it till you try it. Grape jelly meatballs are sweet with a decent kick, courtesy of the chili sauce. They’re perfect for entertaining, snacking, and partying!
I admit I was thrown off to hear that grape jelly meatballs were a thing. But once I tried them, I was sold. Best of all, you just need three simple ingredients. Then throw them in your slow cooker and go about your day! The low-maintenance cooking method on these bad boys makes them a perfect party snack because you can handle a million other things on your to-do list while they cook. By the time you’ve cleaned, decorated, and made the rest of your food, your meatballs are ready!
Are Grape Jelly Meatballs Healthy?
If you’re mindful about your ingredients, you can easily make a healthy version of grape jelly meatballs. Choose an all-natural jelly that contains real fruit and low sugar. For a leaner option, feel free to use a low-fat meatball made from chicken or turkey. Some delicious meatless options are also available. Or make your meatballs from scratch like I always do!
Making Meatballs From Scratch
Like I said, I’m a meatball maniac. That’s because I grew up in a giant Italian family, where everyone was a chef, and everyone’s recipe was better than the others. So, I’ve learned much over the years about making the perfect homemade meatballs.
Now, this recipe has more of an all-American BBQ taste, so you’ll want to make sure you’re not leaning into the Italian flavoring of some meatball recipes. (Lay off the oregano or Italian seasoning.) You’ll also want to use crushed-up Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs in your meatballs. I always suggest this trick, but for these grape jelly meatballs, the Ritz will enhance the flavor profile adding buttery richness.
For extra tender meatballs, don’t overwork the meat. Mix your ingredients just until combined. It’s also a good idea to test a small portion of the mixture before rolling the balls out. Fry up a tiny piece to make sure your seasoning is just right. Another good tip is to pop the meatballs in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure they firm up and hold their shape in the slow cooker.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Once your grape jelly meatballs are cooked, let them cool. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet until piping hot.
Serving Suggestions
These grape jelly meatballs are a great appetizer at big events like birthdays, holidays, and game days. Just pop toothpicks in each one for easy eating! For events like these, grape jelly meatballs pair well with other pub foods like Buffalo Chicken Dip and Beer-Battered Onion Rings.
If you want to make a meal out of your grape jelly meatballs, serve them over Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes with a side of Air-Fryer Asparagus.
However you enjoy them, I’m sure your meatballs will be GRAPE!
Recipe
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen, fully cooked meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce
Instructions
- Place frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix together grape jelly and chili sauce until well combined, then pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even coating and heating.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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