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HOLIDAY HERO
Slow-Cooker Sweet and Tangy Party Meatballs
★★★★★
5.0 (420)|(2 Reviews)Tender beef and pork meatballs simmered in a rich glaze of grape jelly, smoky chili sauce, and a hint of apple cider vinegar.
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By Susan Bronson (Home Cook Contributor)•Published August 15, 2026
⏱ 2 hrs 5 mins
Simply Recipes / Susan Bronson🔥 230 kcal
WHY MAKE THIS
- Just 5 minutes of hands-on prep — dump in the slow cooker and walk away.
- Keeps warm in the slow cooker for hours during the party.
- Loved by kids and adults alike.
HOLIDAY HERO
Slow-Cooker Sweet and Tangy Party Meatballs
The legendary 3-ingredient slow-cooker party appetizer that has anchored buffet tables for generations. The grape jelly and chili sauce melt into a glossy, sweet, tangy barbecue glaze.
Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time2 hrs
Total Time2 hrs 5 mins
Servings12 servings
Scale Recipe:
📱Keep Screen Awake While Cooking
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fully cooked frozen homestyle or Italian meatballs (about 48 mini meatballs)
- 1 jar (12 oz) chili sauce (such as Heinz)
- 1 jar (12 oz) concord grape jelly
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for gentle heat)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish
- Toothpicks for serving
Directions
1
Whisk the sauce
In the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker, whisk together chili sauce, grape jelly, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes until blended.
2
Add meatballs
Add frozen meatballs into the sauce and stir with a wooden spoon until every meatball is completely coated.
3
Slow cook until bubbly
Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours (or HIGH for 2 hours) until meatballs are piping hot and sauce is thick and caramelized.
4
Garnish and serve warm
Switch slow cooker to 'WARM'. Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives and provide a cup of wooden toothpicks nearby.
💡 CHEF'S PRO TIPS
- You can make your own homemade meatballs or use store-bought frozen ones for ultra-convenience.
- Swap grape jelly with whole cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving and holiday parties.
Nutrition Facts
Per ServingCalories230 kcal
Protein12g
Carbs20g
Total Fat11g
Sodium: 510mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Community Reviews & Ratings
2 cooks have shared their thoughts on this recipe
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Sarah M.★★★★★
This has completely replaced my normal avocado toast! The beans blend so well you cannot even tell, and I stay full until lunchtime!
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David K.★★★★★
Great trick for adding protein without cooking eggs on busy mornings. Added a pinch of red pepper flakes and lemon zest—delicious.
