Introduction
Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering? These 3-ingredient crockpot BBQ meatballs are here to save the day! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of tender, mouthwatering meatballs caramelized in a rich, sweet barbecue sauce that’s perfectly complemented by grape jelly. They’re deliciously sticky, incredibly flavorful, and a total breeze to make. Trust me, once you serve these delightful bites, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “meatball!”
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen meatballs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the frozen meatballs in the crockpot, spreading them out to ensure even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce and grape jelly until the two are well combined into a smooth, inviting sauce.
- Pour this luscious sauce mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot, making sure each meatball is generously coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and fragrant.
- Once cooked, serve the warm meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking, or offer them over a bed of fluffy rice for a more filling meal.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to your sauce mixture! These meatballs also make wonderful leftovers; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a quick snack or meal!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe shines thanks to the crockpot method, which ensures the meatballs become wonderfully tender while soaking up all the flavorful sauce. If you prefer a bit of caramelization, you can briefly broil the meatballs in the oven after cooking to achieve a deeper, golden-brown exterior. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
FAQ
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen? Absolutely! Homemade meatballs will work just as well. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
What type of barbecue sauce should I use? Use your favorite barbecue sauce! Whether it’s smoky, sweet, or tangy, the choice is yours to personalize this dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble everything in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it. Just set the crockpot to cook when you’re ready the next day!
Conclusion
These easy 3-ingredient crockpot BBQ meatballs are not just a recipe; they’re a ticket to stress-free entertaining! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for game days, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. So gather your loved ones, dive into those delightful bites, and enjoy the smiles they bring to the table!