Crockpot Meatballs

Crockpot Meatballs

We sure do love our slow cooker crockpot and indeed all of our kitchen gadgets around here. We are kind of having a love affair with making dinner in 30 minutes or less and this recipe fits the bill. Even better when the recipes are super easy like these crockpot meatballs in the slow cooker with grape jelly. These meatballs are seriously delicious.  You just set it up and leave it but the result is an easy meatball recipe that is loved by all. We hope that you love this recipe.

Here is the thing about these meatballs and this recipe…it's easy and fast. However, NOTHING beats homemade meatballs. For real. We cook a lot from scratch and get that your grandmother might be offended if you make this recipe for her. DON'T DO IT. This is more a recipe for when unexpected guests show up, you have to feed a hungry house full of kids but only 1/3 of them are yours, PTA or Scouts potluck dinner, or your Superbowl party because the fact is, they still taste pretty darn good. Even my chef husband over at Foodie Father agrees. There are several reasons why crockpot meatballs are so popular.

Crockpot Meatballs

Ingredients

• 12 oz bag of frozen meatballs (we LOVE the Costco brand meatballs)
• 1 1/2 cups or 12 oz chili sauce
• 19 oz (about 2 1/3 cups) grape jelly

Directions

1. Place meatballs in the crockpot.
2. Pour in the grape jelly and chili sauce.
3. Cook in crockpot on high for 3 hours.
4. Serve & enjoy!

Print Recipe

Cocktail Meatballs Crockpot Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 oz bag frozen meatballs (I LOVE the Costco brand meatballs)
• 1 1/2 cups or 12 oz chili sauce
• 19 oz (about 2 1/3 cups) grape jelly

Directions:

1. Place meatballs in the crockpot.
2. Pour in the grape jelly and chili sauce.
3. Cook in crockpot on high for 3 hours.
4. Serve & enjoy!

Why do people like meatballs so much?

• Ease and convenience: The biggest draw is probably their ease of preparation. You simply throw all the ingredients together in the slow cooker and let it simmer for hours, resulting in a delicious and practically hands-off meal. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you don't have much time to cook.
• Versatility: Another reason for their popularity is their versatility. The basic recipe can be easily adapted to different sauces, flavors, and ingredients. You can use them as appetizers, main courses, or even sliders. You can also mix in different meats, spices, and vegetables to create endless variations.
• Flavor: Slow cooking allows the flavors in the meatballs and sauce to meld and develop, resulting in a rich and delicious taste. The meatballs themselves stay moist and tender, and the sauce becomes thick and flavorful.
• Budget-friendly: Crockpot meatballs are typically a very affordable meal to make. They use simple ingredients and can often be stretched to feed a large family. This makes them a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
• Crowd-pleaser: These meatballs are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are universally loved by adults and children alike, making them a perfect dish for potlucks, parties, or game days.
• Nostalgia: For many people, crockpot meatballs evoke a sense of nostalgia. They are often associated with comforting family meals and gatherings. This emotional connection can further contribute to their popularity.
• Popularity: Some of the most popular crockpot meatball recipes cater to various tastes and preferences. 

Instant Pot Meatball Recipes

Classic Comfort Food

• Crockpot Swedish Meatballs: This timeless recipe features tender meatballs simmered in a creamy mushroom gravy. It's a classic comfort food that's perfect for a cozy winter night.
• Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs: This sweet and tangy recipe is surprisingly delicious and incredibly easy to make. It's a unique twist on the classic and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Crockpot Italian Meatballs: These flavorful meatballs are perfect for serving over pasta, polenta, or rice. They're packed with Italian herbs and spices and simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

Global Flavors

• Slow Cooker Hawaiian Meatballs: These sweet and savory meatballs are inspired by the flavors of Hawaii. They're simmered in a pineapple and soy sauce glaze and are perfect for a tropical taste.
• Crockpot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs: These spicy and tangy meatballs are perfect for serving as an appetizer or game-day snack. They're coated in a Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing mixture and are sure to be a hit.
• Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs: These Asian-inspired meatballs are sweet, savory, and slightly sticky. They're perfect for serving over rice or noodles.

Crockpot Meatloaf

Healthy Options

• Crockpot Turkey Meatballs: These lean and healthy meatballs are a great alternative to beef meatballs. They're still moist and flavorful and can be served with your favorite sauce.
• Crockpot Vegetarian Meatballs: These meatless meatballs are made with lentils, quinoa, and vegetables. They're a healthy and protein-packed option that everyone can enjoy.
• Crockpot Meatball Soup: This hearty soup is packed with vegetables, lean protein, and flavor. It's a perfect one-pot meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.

Factors that might contribute to the popularity of meatballs

• They're great for meal prepping: You can easily make a big batch of meatballs in advance and then reheat them throughout the week.
• They're portable: If you need to take a dish to a potluck or party, crockpot meatballs are a great option because they can be easily transported.
• They're healthy: You can control the ingredients in crockpot meatballs, making them a healthy and nutritious meal option.

These are just a few of the many popular crockpot meatball recipes out there. With so many variations to choose from, you're sure to find a recipe that you and your family will love. The popularity of crockpot meatballs is due to a combination of their ease, versatility, flavor, affordability, and nostalgic appeal. They are a delicious and convenient meal that everyone can enjoy, making them a staple in many kitchens. We hope that you are inspired by this Recipe. Happy eating!

Best Winter Crockpot Recipes