Appetizer Meatballs Recipe

These irresistible slow cooker meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! This classic recipe is easy to double or triple for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. Tender meatballs simmer in a sweet and spicy jelly and chili sauce – they're so good, they'll disappear in minutes! Perfect for game day, holidays, or any occasion.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 380 mins
Calories 363.3 kcal
Protein 36g
Rating 5.0 (6 Reviews)
Appetizer Meatballs

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Appetizer Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • Dry Breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Grape Jelly
  • 1/2 cup chili sauce

How to Make Appetizer Meatballs

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Do not overmix.
  3. Roll the meat mixture into approximately 24 meatballs (approximately 1.5 inches in diameter).
  4. Place meatballs on an ungreased baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
  6. While the meatballs bake, combine grape jelly and chili sauce in your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  7. Once the meatballs are browned, gently transfer them to the slow cooker.
  8. Stir the meatballs to coat them evenly with the jelly and chili sauce.
  9. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

100g

Fat

28g

Carbs

13g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)