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Grape Jelly Crockpot Meatball BitesNew

Grape Jelly Crockpot Meatball Bites

Party-perfect meatballs simmered in a sweet-tangy grape jelly and chili sauce glaze. A quick broil adds caramelized flavor before the slow cooker does the rest.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Meatballs

  • 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean)
  • 2 tablespoons finely grated onion
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce & Finish

  • 1 1/4 cups grape jelly about 14 ounces
  • 1 cup chili sauce 10 ounces
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Start the sauce: Add grape jelly, chili sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker. Cover and preheat on HIGH while you make the meatballs so the glaze loosens and warms.
  • Mix the meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, grated onion, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until just blended (avoid overmixing).
  • Portion and chill: Scoop into 1 to 1 1/4-inch balls (about 36–40 pieces) and set on a parchment-lined sheet. Refrigerate 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
  • Broil to brown: Position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and set broiler to high. Arrange meatballs on a rimmed sheet fitted with a wire rack and broil 6–8 minutes, rotating the pan once, until the tops are well browned but not fully cooked through.
  • Slow cook: Stir the warmed sauce, add the browned meatballs, and turn to coat. Cook on HIGH for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring once halfway through, until the centers reach 160°F and the sauce is glossy and clings to the meatballs. Switch to WARM for serving.
  • Serve: Keep in the slow cooker on WARM for parties, or transfer to a platter with toothpicks. Spoon extra sauce over the top.

Notes

Tip: Lightly dampen your hands or use a small cookie scoop to form uniform meatballs without sticking.
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; rewarm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until the sauce loosens.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Grape Jelly Crockpot Meatball Bites flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.