Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

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Author: Olivia
Published:
Southern grape jelly meatball appetizers served on a platter

A simple party snack below:

introduction

This is a simple, sweet and tangy appetizer that cooks itself in a slow cooker. If you like easy Southern party foods, try this classic Southern pecan pie recipe for another favorite. The meatballs are ready in a few hours and taste great warm.

why make this recipe

Make this when you want a quick appetizer with little work. It uses frozen meatballs and a few sauces. You can start it before guests arrive and forget it until serving time. Many people like the sweet grape jelly mixed with BBQ and savory sauces.

how to make Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

Ingredients :
1 pound frozen meatballs, 1 cup grape jelly, 1 cup BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions :

  1. In a slow cooker, combine grape jelly, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture and stir to coat.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until meatballs are heated through.
  4. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.

how to serve Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

Serve them warm in a slow cooker or in a warm dish on the table. Offer toothpicks so guests can pick them up easily. They go well with crackers, small rolls, or a tray of fresh veggies. You can place a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping.

how to store Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

Let leftovers cool to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a covered pan on low heat until warm. Do not leave cooked meatballs at room temperature for more than two hours.

tips to make Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

  • Use good-quality BBQ sauce for better flavor.
  • Stir the sauce once during cooking if possible for even coating.
  • If sauce is too thick after cooking, add a little water or broth and warm it.
  • For a touch of heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

variation (if any)

  • Use cocktail meatballs or homemade cooked meatballs instead of frozen.
  • Swap grape jelly for apricot preserves for a different sweet note.
  • Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this on high heat?
A: You can cook on high for 2-3 hours, but low for 4-6 hours gives best flavor.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I make the sauce on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Combine the sauce and meatballs in a pan, simmer on low for 20-30 minutes until heated and sauce thickens.

Q: Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
A: No. You can add frozen meatballs straight to the slow cooker.

Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes, but check the heat level if you add hot sauce. The basic recipe is mild and sweet.

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Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

  • Author: arianarecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes
  • Total Time: 250 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A simple, sweet and tangy appetizer made with frozen meatballs, grape jelly, and BBQ sauce. Perfect for parties and gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine grape jelly, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture and stir to coat.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until meatballs are heated through.
  4. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.

Notes

Use quality BBQ sauce for better flavor. For heat, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Southern Grape Jelly Meatball Appetizers

  • Author: arianarecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes
  • Total Time: 250 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A simple, sweet and tangy appetizer made with frozen meatballs, grape jelly, and BBQ sauce. Perfect for parties and gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine grape jelly, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture and stir to coat.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 240 minutes or until meatballs are heated through.
  4. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.

Notes

Use quality BBQ sauce for better flavor. For heat, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Ariana’s Delicious Moments
Hi, I’m Ariana!

A self-taught home cook who loves creating everyday recipes that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. This blog is where I share the meals I actually make from quick weeknight dinners to sweet weekend treats.Let’s cook together!

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