Print

Savory BBQ Meatballs Slow Cooker Recipe with Easy Grape Jelly Glaze

slow cooker BBQ meatballs - featured image
Print Recipe

These savory BBQ meatballs feature a perfect balance of smoky BBQ tang and sweet grape jelly glaze, cooked tender and juicy in a slow cooker. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or crowd-pleasing party snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 20-24 meatballs. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  4. Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick spray or lightly grease with oil. Place meatballs inside in a single layer if possible, then pour the grape jelly glaze over them, coating all meatballs.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir gently once toward the end to coat meatballs again if needed.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer meatballs to a serving dish and spoon extra glaze over top before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender. Use a small cookie scoop for uniform meatballs. If sauce is too runny at the end, cook uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce. Optionally brown meatballs in a skillet before slow cooking for extra caramelized flavor. Leftovers taste better after flavors meld; reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ meatballs, grape jelly glaze, slow cooker meatballs, party appetizer, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/savory-bbq-meatballs-slow-cooker-recipe-with-easy-grape-jelly-glaze/