3 Ingredient Sweet & Spicy Crock Pot Meatballs

This easy-to-make 3-Ingredient Sweet & Spicy Crock Pot Meatballs recipe is perfect for busy days or casual gatherings. With just three simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious crowd-pleaser simmering away in your crock pot, ready to be enjoyed at any party or event.

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (about 1–2 lbs) frozen meatballs
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (or chili sauce for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Place the frozen meatballs directly into the crock pot. No need to thaw.
  2. Pour the grape jelly and BBQ sauce over the meatballs. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.
  3. Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure meatballs stay coated with the sauce.
  4. Spoon meatballs into a serving dish and drizzle extra sauce on top. Optional: garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for presentation.

Variation

  1. Add a splash of sriracha for extra heat.
  2. Use cranberry sauce instead of grape jelly for a holiday twist.
  3. Try turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.

Cooking Notes

  1. Ensure the sauce coats all the meatballs evenly by stirring periodically.
  2. If your crock pot has a tendency to run hot, check the meatballs mid-cooking to prevent burning.
  3. For even more flavor, let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with toothpicks for easy appetizer bites.
  2. Pair with a fresh vegetable platter to balance the flavors.
  3. Accompany with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Tips

  • Thawing the meatballs first can shorten the cooking time if needed.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less grape jelly to taste.
  • Double the recipe for larger gatherings or leftovers!

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 550mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use homemade meatballs?
    Answer: Yes, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster or slower than frozen.
  2. Is there a vegetarian version?
    Answer: Substitute meatballs with vegetarian varieties available in stores.
  3. What if my sauce is too thick?
    Answer: Stir in a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Can this dish be frozen after cooking?
    Answer: Yes, cool completely then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

With just a few readily available ingredients, this 3-Ingredient Sweet & Spicy Crock Pot Meatballs recipe offers a delicious and hassle-free option for entertaining guests or quick family meals. The combination of sweet grape jelly and tangy BBQ sauce creates a flavorful glaze that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to spice up a weeknight dinner, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with your crowd. Plus, their simplicity and versatility make them a household favorite that you’ll want to keep on repeat!