Go Back
A white ceramic bowl filled with glossy grape jelly meatballs with toothpicks in them.

Grape Jelly Meatballs

Tender meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and chili sauce.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 16

Ingredients
  

  • 1 jar grape jelly (510 g) 18 ounce
  • 1 bottle chili sauce (340 g) 12 ounce
  • 1 package frozen cooked meatballs (900 g) 32 ounce

Instructions
 

  • Combine the grape jelly and chili sauce in a large saucepan or the basin of a slow cooker.
  • If using a saucepan, place it over medium heat and stir until the jelly melts and the sauce is smooth. If using a slow cooker, just stir to combine.
  • Add the frozen meatballs to the sauce and stir gently until all the meatballs are evenly coated.
  • For the stovetop method, bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • For the slow cooker method, cover and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 5 hours.
  • Use a food thermometer to check that the meatballs have reached a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • Serve the meatballs warm, directly from the saucepan or by setting the slow cooker to its WARM function.

Notes

Food Safety: For meatballs made with ground meat, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before serving.
The chili sauce needed for this recipe is the sweet and tangy American style, often found next to ketchup. It is not the same as a spicy Asian chili sauce.
For easy serving at a party, place a container of toothpicks next to the meatballs.
Feel free to use other types of jelly, such as apple or apricot, for a slightly different flavor profile.
Keyword appetizer, grape jelly meatball, meatballs, party food, Slow Cooker