Grape Jelly Meatballs: A High-Protein Crockpot Delight
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty dish to serve at your next gathering or simply want an easy weeknight meal, look no further than these grape jelly meatballs! This recipe combines the savory flavors of meatballs with the sweet tang of grape jelly, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress. Plus, with the use of a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other things while your meal cooks to perfection.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the sauce.
- Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot and pour the sauce over them, ensuring that all meatballs are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, check the meatballs to ensure they are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. These meatballs can be served alone, over rice, or as sliders on buns!
Why Grape Jelly Meatballs?
Grape jelly meatballs are a nostalgic dish that many people remember from potlucks and family gatherings. The unique combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them a standout among traditional meatball recipes. Moreover, using a crockpot simplifies the cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you carry on with your day. The high-protein content from the meatballs makes this dish not only delicious but also a satisfying meal option.
Variations to Try
While the classic grape jelly meatballs are delicious as is, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different flavors of jelly or sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or peach preserves.
- Meat Alternatives: Use plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian or vegan option, making it a great dish for any dietary preference.
Serving Suggestions
These grape jelly meatballs are incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them on toothpicks for easy eating at parties and gatherings.
- Over Rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal.
- In Sliders: Place the meatballs on small buns to create delicious sliders that are perfect for game day.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Grape jelly meatballs are an easy, delicious, and high-protein meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a party, they’re sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this crockpot recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of flavors that make this dish a winner!
