Grape Jelly Meatballs

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Sweet, savory, and impossibly easy, these Grape Jelly Meatballs are the secret weapon of every good party spread. Whether you’re hosting game day, a potluck, or need a low-effort dinner with big flavor, this recipe has your back. Juicy meatballs simmer in a glossy sauce made from grape jelly and chili sauce, creating a balance of tangy sweetness that keeps people coming back for more.

The best part? You only need three ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like magic—just toss everything in, stir, and walk away. By the time your guests arrive or dinner rolls around, you’re met with rich, sticky meatballs that smell as good as they taste.

Why You’ll Love This Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity and addicting flavor. It’s a nostalgic appetizer for many, but also incredibly versatile. You can use it as a main course over rice or mashed potatoes, or stick toothpicks in each meatball and serve it as a party snack. It’s freezer-friendly, budget-conscious, and hits the perfect note between sweet and spicy.

Can I Use Frozen or Homemade Meatballs?

Absolutely. This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Frozen meatballs are the ultimate time-saver, but if you’re feeling up for it, homemade meatballs add a touch of richness. Just be sure they are fully cooked before combining them with the sauce if you’re not using a slow cooker. For a leaner option, turkey or chicken meatballs also work beautifully without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for the Grape Jelly Meatballs

This recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something truly memorable. Just a few pantry staples come together for magic.

• Frozen Meatballs
• Grape Jelly
• Chili Sauce

You’ll need about 32 ounces of frozen meatballs, which serve as the base of this dish. Use homestyle or Italian depending on your flavor preference. The grape jelly brings a glossy sweetness that balances out the savory meat. Finally, chili sauce adds tang and a gentle heat, giving the sauce its signature zing. Heinz or any classic-style chili sauce will do the trick.

How To Make the Grape Jelly Meatballs

Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In your slow cooker or a large saucepan, add the grape jelly and chili sauce. Stir them together until mostly smooth. If you’re using the stove, heat gently over medium until the mixture is well combined.

Step 2: Add the Meatballs

Pour in the frozen meatballs and stir to coat each one evenly in the sauce.

Step 3: Cook Until Heated Through

If you’re using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. On the stovetop, simmer for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.

How to Serve and Store Grape Jelly Meatballs

This recipe yields about 6 servings as a main course or up to 10 as an appetizer. They’re perfect for a party platter or kept warm in the slow cooker with a serving spoon for guests to help themselves.

To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—just reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Grape Jelly Meatballs?

White Rice

Soft and fluffy rice soaks up that luscious sauce perfectly.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes give this sweet and savory dish a hearty base.

Dinner Rolls or Sliders

Serve the meatballs tucked into soft rolls for a fun twist on sliders.

Steamed Green Beans

A simple, crisp veggie side helps balance the richness.

Macaroni and Cheese

Pair with something indulgent like creamy mac and cheese for a kid-friendly meal.

Coleslaw

Cool, tangy slaw cuts through the sauce’s sweetness for a refreshing contrast.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Naturally sweet and roasted to perfection, they pair beautifully with these meatballs.

Pasta

Toss the meatballs with buttered noodles for a comforting dinner.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you’re a fan of low-effort, high-reward dishes like these grape jelly meatballs, you’re going to love these too:

• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl
• Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes
• Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how you served yours! Did you go the party route with toothpicks, or make it a full dinner over rice? Got a spicy twist you tried? I’d love to hear it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for crowd-pleasers and weeknight wonders.

Conclusion

Grape Jelly Meatballs are the kind of effortless classic everyone should have in their recipe rotation. From the irresistible glaze to the tender bite, they bring comfort and flavor without any fuss. Make them for your next party or just because—either way, they’ll be a hit.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?