These 3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are super easy and full of flavor! Just combine frozen meatballs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a touch of sweetness for a tasty treat.
I love making these for parties or game day. They’re a hit every time! Just toss everything in the crockpot, and you’re all set. Who doesn’t love a no-fuss recipe that tastes amazing?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cooked Meatballs: You can use beef or turkey meatballs, depending on what you like. If you want a healthier option, try using chicken or plant-based meatballs. These are convenient, but homemade meatballs can add a nice touch if you have time.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce for a punch of flavor! If you want something less sweet, go for a vinegar-based sauce. Need to avoid sugar? There are sugar-free options available! Or, try making a quick homemade sauce with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Grape Jelly: This adds a sweet-tangy flavor balance. If you don’t have grape jelly, you could use apricot or raspberry preserves for a different twist. Honey or maple syrup are good substitutes too, just adjust the quantity to taste!
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs are Flavored Perfectly?
It’s really important to mix the BBQ sauce and grape jelly well before pouring them over the meatballs. This ensures every meatball gets that delicious sweet and tangy coating. Here are some tips:
- Mix sauces in a bowl until smooth to integrate flavors nicely.
- For even more flavor, consider adding some spices like garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce mixture.
- Stir the meatballs a couple of times while cooking to keep them evenly coated in sauce.
- For a finishing touch, garnish with green onions or parsley when serving for a fresh pop of color.
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in the crockpot for 2 to 6 hours, depending on your setting. Perfect for making ahead of time for a party or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen cooked meatballs directly into the crockpot. You don’t need to thaw them, as they will cook perfectly in their sauce.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and grape jelly. Stir it thoroughly until it’s nice and smooth. This mixture will create a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze for your meatballs.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the frozen meatballs, ensuring each one is coated. Give it a gentle stir to help distribute the sauce a bit more.
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Your meatballs will be hot and covered in a bubbly sauce when they’re ready.
5. Give Them a Stir:
About halfway through cooking, stir the meatballs gently. This helps to evenly coat them in the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When cooking is complete, serve the meatballs hot. They’re fantastic as is, but feel free to garnish with some chopped green onions or parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy these tasty meatballs at your next gathering!
These sweet and tangy meatballs are not only easy to make but are always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, game days, or a simple family dinner!
Can I Use Different Types of Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use any frozen cooked meatballs you prefer—beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based varieties. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
Can I Substitute the Grape Jelly?
Yes! If you don’t have grape jelly on hand, you can use other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry. Honey or maple syrup works too; just adjust the amount to taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce mixture the night before. Just store the sauce separately in the fridge, and combine it with the meatballs in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook. This makes for an easy game day or party dish!