These three-ingredient meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile! I first had them as an appetizer years ago. My kids loved them so much that I started making them as part of a meal, serving them over rice. Dinners don't have to be complicated or require a long list of ingredients. Three pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker are all you need to make a batch of incredibly flavorful meatballs!
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. It's sure to become a go-to for anyone who loves a sweet and tangy flavor combination.
If you are a fan of slow cooker (Crockpot) meals, try these easy no-peek beef tips or this delicious shredded beef recipe (with lots of serving suggestions). We all need these when life gets crazy!
Table of contents
Why I love these meatballs
These super easy meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They're always a hit at potlucks, game days, or any casual gathering. People can't resist the delicious flavor combination. Everyone always takes a peek in the slow cooker then helps themselves!
If you are looking for a budget-friendly appetizer, these meatballs with only three ingredients are it! Since they use pantry staples and frozen meatballs, you can make a delicious and satisfying appetizer without breaking the bank. I always use the leftovers for a meal and sometimes make them just as a meal (with leftovers that freeze well).
The combination of grape jelly, chili sauce, and meatballs might sound strange initially, but trust me, it works! The flavors come together beautifully, creating a sweet and tangy sauce that's incredibly addictive.
Ingredients
Yes, THREE ingredients!
- I always use 2 pounds of frozen meatballs. Many bags only have 1 ½ pounds now but that still works! Use beef, chicken or turkey, whatever your favorite frozen meatballs are.
- Heinz Chili Sauce adds just the right amount of extra flavor. I try not to endorse brands, but this is the one I always use, so I wanted to show you the bottle. This isn't a super spicy sauce. It's kind of like flavorful ketchup. If you have super picky eaters who don't like much flavor, I used to make this with regular ketchup when my kids were young.
- Grape Jelly adds sweetness and gives the meatballs a nice sheen when serving. It's an inexpensive ingredient so I always do buy a name brand of this.
Instructions
Step 1
Place grape jelly and chilli sauce in crockpot and give it a whisk to mix it well.
Step 2
Add the meatballs. I usually add them as frozen.
Cook for 3 hours on high or 5 hours on low. I stir once in the middle of the cooking time.
How to Serve
Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Or, as a main course over a bed of rice, or on mashed potatoes. Delicious on noodles too! Plenty of sauce for everyone.
FAQs
If you love your barbeque sauce, this recipe is versatile and works with BBQ sauce also. Just substitute barbeque sauce for the chili sauce.
Yes, it will take less time. It will take about 30-40 minutes to cook. Make sure the meatballs are cooked through before serving.
Other Easy Appetizer Recipes
3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Meatballs
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 pounds meatballs frozen, plain
- 12 oz Heinz chili sauce the whole bottle
- 16 oz grape jelly
Instructions
- Turn slow Cooker onto high
- Add Chili sauce and grape jelly to slow cooker. Whisk together until well mixed. It's ok if it is a little lumpy.
- Add frozen meatballs.Cook 3 hour on high OR5 hours on low.
- This is often served as an appetizer (especially in cooler weather). I also like serving the meatballs and sauce on rice, or mashed potatoes. It would also be good over noodles.
Notes
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition (I am not a nutritionist. These are estimates only)
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