Description
Grape Jelly Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that blends sweet grape jelly with tangy chili sauce to create a flavorful glaze. Easy to make with basic ingredients, these meatballs are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a main course. This simple recipe is a guaranteed hit, and the versatility in flavors and serving options makes it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons finely minced or grated onion
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12-ounce bottle chili sauce (such as Heinz)
- 1 1/2 cups grape jelly
- Cooking spray
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Broil for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- While the meatballs are cooking, melt the grape jelly in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in the chili sauce until well combined.
-
Combine and Cook:
- Coat a 4-quart or larger slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the browned meatballs into the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 hours.
-
Serve:
- Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs to ensure they’re evenly coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Variations: You can swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or use apricot preserves, apple jelly, or cranberry sauce instead of grape jelly.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy chili sauce for a kick.
- Storage/Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze the meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Broil, Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
