Crockpot Meatballs in Barbecue Sauce
One of the simplest and most beloved appetizers you can make with frozen meatballs is a batch of Crockpot Meatballs in Barbecue Sauce. This recipe allows you to throw in ingredients and let the slow cooker do all the work, infusing each meatball with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Here’s how you can make this quick and delightful dish:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1⁄2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Place the frozen meatballs into your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs, stirring gently to ensure all meatballs are well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meatballs are thoroughly heated and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve with cocktail sticks or as a topping for slider buns.
⚠️ Note: Always ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee they are safely cooked.
Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs
Nothing says party like the unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors in Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs. Here’s a straightforward recipe for this easy crowd-pleaser:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 12-oz bottle chili sauce
Instructions
- Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot.
- Mix the grape jelly and chili sauce in a separate bowl until combined.
- Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating and cooking.
- Serve hot directly from the crockpot.
Swedish Meatballs with Gravy
Channel the warmth of a Scandinavian kitchen with Swedish Meatballs in a Creamy Gravy. This rich, comforting dish is a perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining savory meatballs with a deliciously creamy sauce:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to mix the sauce.
- Serve meatballs with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Throughout this culinary journey, we've explored a range of flavors to elevate your appetizer game. Whether you prefer the tangy richness of barbecue sauce, the surprising sweetness of grape jelly and chili sauce, or the comforting embrace of Swedish meatballs, there's something here for every palate. Cooking with a slow cooker not only simplifies the preparation process but also intensifies the flavors, making your appetizer offerings truly irresistible. Embrace the ease and taste of these recipes to make your next gathering a hit with minimal effort.
Can I use homemade meatballs for these recipes?
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Yes, you can use homemade meatballs. Just ensure they are fully cooked before placing them in the slow cooker. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How can I keep meatballs warm for a party?
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Set your slow cooker to the ‘keep warm’ setting or transfer the meatballs to a chafing dish or warming tray to maintain temperature during the event.
What sides go well with these meatballs?
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Pair these meatballs with options like toasted bread, rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad for variety.
Related Terms:
- frozen meatball appetizer crockpot recipes
- Grape jelly meatballs
- Cocktail meatballs
- Crockpot Swedish Meatballs
- Sweet and sour meatballs
- Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
