crockpot jelly bbq meatballs;

Originally published November 21, 2016. Updated January 23, 2026 for content and clarity.

This is one of my favorite holiday, party, and Super Bowl recipes. These crockpot jelly BBQ meatballs might sound like an odd combination of ingredients, but if you give them a chance, they’re so, so good. I always come back for more. And if you need another reason to convince you to at least try these, crockpot jelly bbq meatballs are literally a four-ingredient recipe. And for a slow cooker recipe that’s set and forget, I’m not really sure how else to convince you. I’m not sure I’d ever have expected grape jelly & BBQ sauce to be a smash hit, but they are!

The first time I experienced these crockpot jelly BBQ meatballs was at my Uncle’s house for the holidays. Pretty sure I posted up next to the crockpot and loaded up my plate. But when I realized just how simple they are to make, I figured heck, no need to wait until Christmas to make these!

Make sure you grab cocktail-sized meatballs if you want to serve bite sized appetizers!

Secret to success

I use pre-made frozen meatballs for these for convenience, though of course you could make them homemade if you have extra time and gumption. Usually I toss these crockpot jelly bbq meatballs in rotation with other appetizers so I go for quick and simple. I prefer the cocktail sized meatballs for this appetizer, and besides that means more delicious sauce to every meatball bite.

Some folks swear by chili sauce instead of bbq sauce, but I think you can tell my preference from the name: crockpot jelly bbq meatballs. If you’re interested in trying the chili sauce, swap it in 1:1 instead of the BBQ sauce. Still tasty, but I like how thick and creamy the BBQ sauce is. The chili sauce is a bit thinner and chunkier, but has a more savory flavor.

Some folks swear by chili sauce instead of BBQ sauce!

Secret to success

One of the reasons I prefer BBQ sauce over chili sauce is that I hate relying on a single brand and specific item. I pretty much always have some derivative of bbq sauce in my house, and grape jelly hangs out for a long time in a fridge, even open. So crockpot jelly bbq meatballs is a perfect backup meal or potluck option I can keep prepared in my kitchen whenever I need it. My favorite BBQ sauce (not sponsored) is Sweet Baby Rays, especially the chipotle honey variety. That little extra kick, paired with the grape jelly, makes for a party on the tongue. One that keeps you coming back for more.

Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Mine is a Chipotle Honey BBQ for a little kick of heat alongside the sweet.

secret to success

I most recently made them for a D&D session alongside Caramelized Bacon Onion Dip. That dip recipe is infamous and actually one of the first things I shared on this blog back when it was tipsychocochip. We had a great time and vowed to do it more regularly. That particular group might have petered out over time but my husband still DMs a game that’s been going on for 2 years now! Crazy.

We’ll make these for the Super Bowl this year. Often, I have lots of carb-and-cheese appetizers, so throwing in hearty crockpot jelly bbq meatballs is a nice addition to the rotation. I also like pairing them with miso brown butter popcorn for a different texture and an umami flavor to balance out the sweetness from the meatballs.

secrets to success;

Want all the best tips and tricks to make this recipe a success? Check out the blog post above to find out more!

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more recipes;

Looking for other A+ appetizers? Check out these delicious options!

• A fan favorite, individualized maple chicken and waffle sliders are such a fun addition to any party! Make sure to make a lot though, they go fast!
• Brown sugar bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are a personal favorite. With the crisp crunch of waterchestnuts and a soy bacon glaze, each bite is chock full of flavor and texture.
• Who doesn’t love cheese and carbs? This easy bloomin’ onion pull apart bread is quick and delicious, perfect if you need another easy appetizer on the table.
• Cheesy buffalo chicken dip is always a Super Bowl staple! Serve with veggies or chips for a satisfying crunch!
• For a little variety, try making miso brown butter popcorn. It’s salty, and umami flavors hit just right, and contrast with these sweet crockpot jelly bbq meatballs.