Grape Jelly Meatballs
The ultimate party meatballs, this super-simple dish comes together in the slow cooker, which also keeps it warm for both transporting and for enjoying at your leisure. Traditionally, these are made with frozen meatballs, but this version calls for making your own, using just about any ground meat you like. Crushed red pepper gives these an additional kick, but if you don’t love a spicy meatball, feel free to pull back on the amount. The flavors mellow and combine in the slow cooker, leaving you with a sweet, smoky meatball that’s moist and rich with flavor. Whether for a potluck, holiday or baby shower, this recipe will definitely leave your guests wanting more.
- Preparation:
- Cooking:
- Total:
- Serves: 25 persons
Ingredients
- ½cup panko bread crumbs
- 2teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 4garlic cloves, minced
- 1large shallot, minced
- Salt and black pepper
- 2pounds ground meat (pork, beef, veal, chicken, turkey or a combination)
- 1egg
- 1cup grape jelly
- 1cup barbecue sauce, store-bought or homemade
- ½teaspoon fresh grated ginger
Instructions
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, red pepper, 3/4 of the minced garlic, the shallot, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Add the ground meat and egg and mix together, using your hands. Roll into 1½-inch balls. Transfer to a baking sheet.Step 2
In the bowl of the slow cooker, stir together the grape jelly, barbecue sauce, ginger and the remaining garlic. (Add a little water, if needed, to break up the sauce.) Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.Step 3
Add meatballs and stir gently until coated in sauce. Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours. Keep warm until ready to serve.