3-Ingredient Sweet and Sour Meatballs

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Want a super easy appetizer that’s sure to please? You’ve got to try these 3-ingredient sweet and sour meatballs! They’re perfect for parties or game day snacking. Just toss frozen meatballs, chili sauce, and grape jelly in your slow cooker and let it do all the work. In a few hours, you’ll have tender, flavorful meatballs swimming in a tangy-sweet sauce.

The best part? Prep takes only 5 minutes. You can set it and forget it while you focus on other things. When it’s time to eat, just serve them up with toothpicks. Your guests will love these tasty bites!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

You’ll need just 3 simple ingredients for these delicious sweet and sour meatballs:

• 1 jar (12 oz) chili sauce
• 1 1/2 cups grape jelly
• 2 lb (32 oz) frozen meatballs

Don’t have grape jelly? No problem! You can use apricot preserves instead. It gives a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor.

For the chili sauce, any brand will work. If you can’t find it, try mixing ketchup with a bit of hot sauce for a similar taste.

Frozen meatballs are super convenient, but you can make your own if you prefer. Just be sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.

Want to add some extra flavor? Try tossing in a can of pineapple chunks or some chopped bell peppers. These aren’t necessary, but they can add a nice touch to your dish.

Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Feel free to experiment, but don’t worry if you stick to the basics. Your meatballs will still taste great!

Instructions

Get ready to make some tasty meatballs! Here’s how:

1. 
   

   Grab your slow cooker and pour in the frozen meatballs.

   
   
2. 
   

   Mix the grape jelly and chili sauce in a bowl. Pour this sweet and tangy sauce over the meatballs.

   
   
3. 
   

   Cover and cook on low for 3-5 hours. The meatballs should be hot all the way through.

   
   
4. 
   

   Give them a stir once or twice while cooking to coat evenly.

   
   
5. 
   

   When they’re done, serve them up with toothpicks for easy snacking.

   
   

Want to jazz things up? Try these tips:

• Add some pineapple chunks or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
• Swap grape jelly for apricot preserves for a different twist.
• Cook on high for 2 hours if you’re short on time.

Remember to keep your slow cooker on warm if you’re not serving right away. These meatballs are great for parties or game day snacks. Enjoy!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make these meatballs even tastier by trying different jelly flavors. Grape works great, but apricot or cranberry can add a fun twist.

For extra flavor, toss in some pineapple chunks or bell peppers halfway through cooking. This adds color and a fresh taste.

Got leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the microwave.

Freezing is also an option. Place cooled meatballs in a freezer bag and use within 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Want to serve these at a party? Keep them warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Provide toothpicks for easy grabbing.

For a quick meal, serve over rice or noodles. Add a side of steamed veggies for a complete dinner.

Short on time? Cook on high for 2 hours instead of low for 4. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.