These 3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are super easy and packed with flavor! Just throw in frozen meatballs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and grape jelly.
I love how this dish makes dinner a breeze! Perfect for busy days or game night, and you can just set it and forget it. Who can resist those tasty little bites? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cooked Meatballs: You can use beef, turkey, or pork based on your preference. If you’re looking for healthier options, consider lean turkey or chicken meatballs. If you’re vegetarian, plant-based meatballs work too!
BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you enjoy—sweet, smoky, or spicy! For a healthier twist, look for low-sugar or homemade versions. If BBQ sauce isn’t your thing, a teriyaki glaze can make an exciting substitute.
Grape Jelly: This adds a sweet touch to balance the BBQ flavor. If you’re not a fan of grape, try apricot or even peach preserves for a similar sweetness. Honey or maple syrup can also work as alternatives.
How Can I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Deliciously Coated?
Coating your meatballs properly is crucial for great flavor. When you mix the BBQ sauce and grape jelly, stir until completely blended for an even flavor. Here’s how to ensure everything is coated well:
- After pouring the sauce over the meatballs, use a spoon or spatula to carefully toss them in the sauce.
- While cooking, give the crockpot a gentle stir once or twice throughout the cooking time. This helps redistribute the sauce.
- Make sure the meatballs are in a single layer if possible. This keeps them coated and helps with even heat distribution!
With these tips, your meatballs will be bursting with flavor and ready in no time! Enjoy!
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen cooked meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time. Cooking will require 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. So, you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal ready by dinner time—perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Meatballs:
Start by placing your frozen meatballs directly into the crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them first; they will cook nicely in the sauce.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and grape jelly. Use a whisk or spoon to stir them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This sweet and tangy sauce is what makes your meatballs special!
3. Coating the Meatballs:
Once your sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the meatballs in the crockpot. Make sure all the meatballs are coated as best as possible. Use a spoon to gently stir them if needed.
4. Cooking:
Now, cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know they are done when the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and a bit thickened.
5. Serving:
Throughout the cooking process, give the meatballs a gentle stir every once in a while to ensure they stay coated. Once they’re ready, serve them warm. They make a great appetizer with toothpicks or can be served over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty main dish.
Enjoy your easy, flavorful 3-ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs! Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen Ones?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade meatballs, just make sure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the crockpot. The cooking time will be approximately the same to heat them through and blend the flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the meatballs and sauce in the crockpot the night before and refrigerate it. Just set the crockpot to cook in the morning. This makes for an easy, hassle-free dinner when you get home!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If they seem a bit dry, add a splash of BBQ sauce or a bit of water while reheating.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Absolutely! If you want less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of grape jelly or even omit it altogether if you prefer a spicier BBQ flavor. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar for some tang!
