Description
Grape Jelly Meatballs are a deliciously sweet and tangy appetizer or main dish, featuring tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful sauce made from grape jelly, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Perfect for parties or casual meals, this easy recipe can be prepared on the stovetop or slow cooker.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (fully cooked)
Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups grape jelly
- 1 1/2 cups chili sauce (such as Heinz)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a large saucepan or slow cooker, combine the grape jelly, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until it becomes smooth and homogenous.
- Add the meatballs: Place the frozen, fully cooked meatballs into the sauce and stir gently to coat them evenly with the sauce base.
- Cook in slow cooker (optional): If using a slow cooker, cover and set to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This allows the meatballs to heat through thoroughly and the sauce to thicken and meld with the meatballs’ flavors.
- Cook on stovetop (alternative): If cooking on the stovetop, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then cover the pan. Let it cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the sauce to thicken nicely while ensuring the meatballs are heated.
- Serve: After cooking, serve the meatballs warm. They are perfect as an appetizer on their own or served over rice or noodles for a satisfying main dish.
Notes
- This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm in the slow cooker during parties to serve guests conveniently.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
- Homemade pre-cooked meatballs can substitute frozen meatballs if preferred.
- For gluten-free preparation, ensure the meatballs and chili sauce used are labeled gluten-free.
