Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are the perfect appetizer or main dish, combining juicy meatballs with a delicious balance of sweet and heat. Whether you’re serving them for a party, game day, or an easy weeknight meal, these meatballs are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation – Just dump the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it cook.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness of the sauce pairs perfectly with the spicy kick.
- Great for Parties – A crowd-pleaser that stays warm in the slow cooker for hours.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy them as an appetizer, over rice, or in sandwiches.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Easy to prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen or homemade meatballs
- Grape jelly
- Chili sauce or barbecue sauce
- Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a mixing bowl, whisk together the grape jelly, chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add Meatballs to the Slow Cooker – Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs – Stir everything together to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thick and sticky.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 6-8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 2-6 hours, depending on the setting
Variations
- Extra Spicy: Add more sriracha, diced jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- BBQ Twist: Swap chili sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce instead of chili sauce and add a splash of soy sauce and ginger.
- Honey Garlic Version: Replace grape jelly with honey and add fresh minced garlic.
- Meat Options: Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes! Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.
What can I use instead of grape jelly?
Apricot preserves, honey, or brown sugar work as great alternatives.
How do I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce or omit the sriracha and red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and reheat them in the slow cooker on low.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs?
Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a meal.
Can I cook these on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, but brown them first in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Absolutely! Just use a larger slow cooker to accommodate the extra meatballs and sauce.
How long can I keep these warm in the slow cooker?
You can keep them on the “warm” setting for up to 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll have tender, saucy meatballs ready to impress your guests. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit!
Print
Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Meatballs
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high
- Total Time: 2-6 hours (depending on setting)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Meatballs are the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Made with frozen meatballs, grape jelly, and chili sauce, this effortless slow cooker recipe is great for parties, game days, or easy dinners. Serve them as an appetizer or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a crowd-pleasing meal!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce (or barbecue sauce)
- 2 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together the grape jelly, chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add Meatballs to the Slow Cooker – Place frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Meatballs – Stir well to coat all meatballs evenly.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Mild Version – Reduce or omit sriracha and red pepper flakes.
- Extra Spicy – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra hot sauce.
- Meatball Options – Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter alternative.
- Thicker Sauce – Let the sauce simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
- Storage – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating – Microwave or warm on the stovetop over low heat.
- Freezing – Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
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