I love how these Savory Sweet 3‑Ingredient Slow Cooker Cocktail Meatballs come together with almost no effort. With frozen meatballs simmered in a glossy blend of chili sauce and grape jelly, this slow cooker recipe delivers big flavor using just three simple ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lb (32 oz) frozen cooked meatballs
12 oz chili sauce (such as Heinz)
10 oz grape jelly
Directions
I start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker insert.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together the chili sauce and grape jelly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
I pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
I cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
I serve them warm with toothpicks for appetizers or spoon them over rice for an easy main dish.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 30 appetizer-size servings from this recipe.
Prep time is about 5 minutes.
Cooking time ranges from 3 to 4 hours on low.
Total time is roughly 3 hours and 5 minutes.
Each serving is approximately 116 calories.
Variations
I sometimes swap grape jelly for cranberry jelly when I want a slightly tart flavor.
I like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if I’m craving a little heat.
For a smoky twist, I mix in a tablespoon of barbecue sauce with the chili sauce.
When I want a homemade feel, I use my favorite homemade meatballs instead of frozen.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For reheating, I warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally so the sauce stays smooth.
I also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months and thaw them overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I cook these meatballs on high instead of low?
I can cook them on high for about 1½ to 2 hours, but I prefer low heat for the best texture and sauce consistency.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs first?
I never thaw them. I put them into the slow cooker straight from the freezer.
What type of chili sauce works best?
I like a classic bottled chili sauce because it balances sweetness and tang without being too spicy.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I often make them a day in advance and reheat them in the slow cooker before serving.
Are these meatballs very sweet?
I find them perfectly balanced. The chili sauce cuts the sweetness of the jelly so the flavor stays savory and rich.
Conclusion
I rely on these Savory Sweet 3‑Ingredient Slow Cooker Cocktail Meatballs whenever I need something easy, reliable, and delicious. They prove that simple ingredients can still create bold, comforting flavors, and I always feel confident serving them to a crowd.
📖 Recipe:
Savory Sweet 3‑Ingredient Slow Cooker Cocktail Meatballs
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: About 30 appetizer servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Easy savory-sweet slow cooker cocktail meatballs made with frozen meatballs, chili sauce, and grape jelly for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or simple main dish.
Ingredients
2 lb (32 oz) frozen cooked meatballs
12 oz chili sauce (such as Heinz)
10 oz grape jelly
Instructions
- Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the chili sauce and grape jelly until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice, until heated through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice as a main dish.
Notes
No need to thaw the meatballs before cooking.
Stir once or twice during cooking for even coating.
Can be kept warm on the slow cooker’s warm setting for serving.
Great for parties, potlucks, and game day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer serving
- Calories: 116
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
