Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are the easiest party appetizer because the slow cooker does all the work. You toss in frozen meatballs, pour over a sweet and tangy sauce, and a couple hours later you have saucy, sticky meatballs that disappear at any party or gathering.
This sauce is what makes them so good, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, grape jelly, and a little orange zest for a fresh pop. They are perfect for game day, potlucks, holidays, or even an easy dinner over rice.
For more great meatballs, try our Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Grape Jelly Meatballs, and Asian Meatballs for more meatball favorites!
Why we think you’ll love it:
- So simple. It is a true dump-and-go slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy days and hosting.
- An easy shortcut. We make it super easy by using frozen meatballs, homemade meatballs can be used if you want to go the extra mile.
- Make it a meal. They work as an appetizer or an easy dinner with rice, mashed potatoes, or sliders.
Crockpot BBQ Meatballs Ingredients
- Frozen meatballs, fully cooked (1 (40-ounce) bag): Keeps this recipe quick and easy, and the meatballs soak up the sauce as they heat. Or make Homemade Meatballs using lean ground beef and ground pork. Brown before adding them to the crock pot or the meatballs will fall apart.
- Grape jelly (1 (10-ounce) jar): Adds sweetness and helps create that thick, glossy glaze that clings to the meatballs.
- BBQ sauce (2½ cups): Brings smoky, tangy flavor and gives the sauce that classic barbecue taste. Sweet Baby Rays is one of my favorite brands. Use your favorite sauce or even make Homemade BBQ Sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce (1 cup): Adds gentle heat and a sweet tang that makes the sauce more interesting and not overly sweet.
- Orange zest (orange zest, from one orange): Brightens the whole sauce and adds a fresh citrus note that makes these taste extra special.
- optional salt and pepper: To taste
How to Make BBQ Meatballs
COMBINE. Add 10 ounces grape jelly, 2½ cups BBQ sauce, 1 cup sweet chili sauce, and orange zest to a bowl and mix well.
- Add 1 bag of frozen meatballs to a greased slow cooker and pour over the sauce. Stir to coat.
COOK. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-6 hours. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
SERVE. Eat them alone, pair them with other foods like Mashed Potatoes or rice, or make a meatball sub sandwich.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Stovetop. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Brown the frozen meatballs on all sides. Add the BBQ sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
- Oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the frozen meatballs in a baking dish and pour on the BBQ. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crockpot BBQ meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Kristyn’s Recipe Tips
- Whisk the sauce well before adding so the jelly blends smoothly and does not sit in a lump.
- Stir once or twice during cooking if you can, it helps every meatball stay coated in the glaze.
- If the sauce seems thin at the end, crack the lid for the last 20 to 30 minutes on high so it reduces a bit.
- For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
BBQ Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (40-ounce) bag frozen meatballs, fully cooked
- 1 (10-ounce) jar grape jelly
- 2½ cups BBQ sauce
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
- orange zest, (from one orange)
Instructions
- Add the grape jelly, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, and orange zest to a bowl and mix well.
- Add the meatballs to a greased slow cooker and pour over the sauce. Stir to coat.
- Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-6 hours.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Recipe FAQ
To make ahead of time or store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw if needed and reheat in the microwave, in a saucepan on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker.
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This recipe was first shared February, 2022.
Has anyone every tried this with a spicy jelly? I’m looking to add a little spice to take away some of the sweetness.
I haven’t, but I bet it would be delicious still! You’ll have to let us know how it tastes if you use a spicy jelly.
These are the easiest meatballs! And love the flavor of these! Super delicious! Perfect for parties & brunches!
SO GOOD. We love this as an appetizer, but sometimes we’ll have it for dinner served over rice – it’s a fave in our house!
I love a good easy recipe. This was great, thank you.
You’re so welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
I recently came across your homemade BBQ recipe and I’m in the hunt to use it in other recipes. I love grape jelly meatballs and this is the perfect recipe for it.
An easy meal or appetizer that goes into the crockpot with easy ingredients.
You should see my kids shoving these in their mouth!! They are a huge hit with my family. They are great when entertaining!