I still remember the first time I made Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly. I was hosting a small family gathering back on my island of Crete, and I wanted something simple but impressive something that would make everyone smile. My grandmother always said that food is love you can taste, and this recipe is exactly that. The sweet grape jelly pairs beautifully with the tangy barbecue sauce, creating a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s one of those dishes that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your guests ask for seconds.
What I love about this recipe is how effortless it is. You can literally throw the ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and walk away. While it cooks, you can focus on chatting, setting the table, or even sneaking a few bites of something else in the kitchen (don’t worry, I won’t tell!). The beauty of Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly is that it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for parties, potlucks, or even a cozy Sunday family dinner.
If you’ve never tried mixing meatballs with grape jelly before, trust me you’re in for a treat. The sweetness of the jelly enhances the savory meat, while the barbecue sauce gives it a smoky, tangy kick. It’s comfort food with a fun tropical twist, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, this recipe works perfectly with frozen meatballs, making it even easier for those nights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a winner. You’ll get a little Crete-inspired warmth in every bite and maybe even create your own little family tradition. So grab your crockpot, your favorite grape jelly, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly 🍲
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this irresistible dish:
- 1 package (about 32 oz) frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup grape jelly (smooth or chunky, your choice!)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand works perfectly)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Tip: Using frozen meatballs saves time and makes this recipe a true “set it and forget it” meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions 🥄
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine grape jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. The sauce is the heart of these meatballs, giving them that signature sweet-and-savory flavor.
2. Add Meatballs to the Crockpot
Place frozen meatballs into your crockpot. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure each one gets coated. Don’t worry if some sauce pools at the bottom that’s where all the flavor develops while cooking.
3. Cook Low & Slow
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. The meatballs will become tender, and the sauce will thicken beautifully. If you’re using homemade meatballs, you might want to add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked.
4. Stir Occasionally
Give the meatballs a gentle stir once or twice during cooking to evenly coat them in the sauce. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it almost impossible not to sneak a taste!
5. Serve Hot
Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot, straight from the crockpot, and watch everyone’s eyes light up at the first bite.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly are versatile and pair beautifully with:
- Steamed white rice or coconut rice 🍚
- Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta 🥔
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers 🥦🌶️
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread for a party-style platter 🥖
This recipe is perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or party finger food. You can even double it for potlucks just make sure your crockpot is large enough!
Tip Card Recipe ✨
🍳 Time Cook
- Prep: 5 minutes
- Cook: 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
🥗 Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: green onions, sesame seeds
📝 Instructions
- Mix grape jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and spices.
- Add meatballs to crockpot and pour sauce over.
- Cook on low 4–6 hours or high 2–3 hours.
- Stir occasionally and garnish before serving.
💡 Note
- Frozen meatballs work best for convenience.
- Sauce thickens while cooking; stir for even coating.
- Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
🥘 Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 12g
Quick 100-Word Version 📝
If you want a quick, easy, and delicious crowd-pleaser, Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly are the way to go. Simply combine frozen meatballs with grape jelly, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings in a crockpot. Cook low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until tender and flavorful. Stir occasionally for even coating. Serve hot with rice, roasted veggies, or dinner rolls. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair. Sweet, tangy, and completely effortless, this recipe is perfect for weeknights, parties, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Conclusion 💛
Cooking should feel joyful, not stressful, and Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs with Grape Jelly capture that perfectly. It’s sweet, tangy, and comforting a dish that brings people together effortlessly. Every time I make this recipe, I remember my grandmother’s words: “Food is love you can taste.” And it’s true. Even the simplest ingredients, like grape jelly and meatballs, can become something extraordinary when shared with people you love. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become a family favorite that everyone asks for again and again. Happy cooking! 🥰