These 3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are super simple and packed with flavor! Just throw the meatballs, BBQ sauce, and grape jelly in your slow cooker and let them cook.
I love how easy it is—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Plus, they always disappear quickly at parties. Who can resist those sweet and tangy bites? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cooked Meatballs: I like using beef meatballs for their rich flavor, but turkey or chicken work well too! If you prefer homemade meatballs, feel free to substitute them, just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your go-to BBQ sauce for this recipe – sweet, tangy, or smoky. You can also make your own sauce for a personal touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, opt for a low-sugar or organic variant.
Grape Jelly: This gives a unique sweetness that balances the BBQ flavor. If you don’t have grape jelly on hand, apricot preserves or a similar fruit jelly can be a great alternative for the same sweet flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Meatballs Are Perfectly Heated and Coated?
Cooking the meatballs low and slow in the crockpot is key for flavor! This gives them time to soak up that BBQ and jelly mixture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with frozen meatballs to simplify the process. No need to thaw them!
- Mix the BBQ sauce and grape jelly in a bowl until smooth before pouring it over the meatballs.
- For a richer flavor, let them cook on low for the full 6 hours; high heat is great if you’re in a hurry.
- Stir gently halfway through, if you can, to keep the sauce evenly distributed.
These tips will help you create mouthwatering meatballs that everyone will love!
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/3 cup grape jelly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just a few minutes to prep, with a cooking time of 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in your crockpot. So, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days or parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs
First, grab your bag of frozen cooked meatballs and pour them directly into the crockpot. No need to thaw them beforehand; they’ll heat up perfectly in the sauce!
2. Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and grape jelly. Use a whisk or spoon to mix them until smooth and fully blended. This sweet and tangy combo is what makes these meatballs irresistible.
3. Add the Sauce to Meatballs
Pour the BBQ and grape jelly mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot. Give them a gentle stir to make sure all the meatballs are nicely coated with the sauce.
4. Cook Your Meatballs
Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. If you can, give them a quick stir halfway through cooking to ensure even flavor absorption.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re heated through and the sauce is thick and glossy, they’re ready to serve! You can enjoy them warm as a tasty appetizer, or serve them over rice for a satisfying main dish. Enjoy your delicious meatball creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use beef, turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meatballs. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier twist, use turkey or chicken meatballs and opt for a low-sugar BBQ sauce and grape jelly. You can also pair the meatballs with steamed vegetables instead of rice.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce combination a day in advance. Just store them in the crockpot insert in the fridge, then cook them the following day as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
