Crockpot Party Meatballs: 19 Dump-and-Go Sauces That Empty the Slow Cooker First

Crockpot party meatballs are the easiest holiday appetizer there is: one bag of frozen meatballs, one or two jars of sauce, and a slow cooker that does all the work. Searches for how long frozen meatballs take in the crockpot jumped 160 percent on Google this week, and cranberry jalapeno meatballs are climbing too. Here are the sauces worth trying this season, from the grandma classic to new sweet and spicy favorites, plus easy safety tips for serving a crowd..

Crockpot Party Meatballs: Cranberry Jalapeno First

Every holiday party has one slow cooker that empties first. It is almost always the meatballs, and most of them start with a frozen bag and two jars. Start with the one everybody is searching for this fall: cranberry jalapeno meatballs, sweet, tangy and just a little spicy..

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce, 1 jar (10 oz) hot pepper jelly, 1 jalapeno (sliced), 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, 1 tbsp lime juice, toothpicks.

How to make it: 1. Add the frozen meatballs to a 6 quart slow cooker. 2. Whisk the cranberry sauce, pepper jelly and lime juice. 3. Pour over the meatballs and stir to coat. 4. Cover and cook on low 4 hours or high 2 to 3 hours, until the centers reach 165 F. 5. Stir in the fresh cranberries and jalapeno slices for the last 20 minutes. 6. Switch to Warm and serve with toothpicks.

Crockpot Party Meatballs: The Classic Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce

This is the recipe that started it all, and it still empties the slow cooker first at every party. Grape jelly and chili sauce melt into a sweet, tangy, glossy glaze that sounds strange but tastes amazing. It takes three ingredients and two minutes of work, which is why it is still the most famous of the bunch. Among crockpot party meatballs, this one is the grandma classic. Have you ever tried it?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 jar (18 oz) grape jelly, 1 bottle (12 oz) chili sauce, toothpicks.

How to make it: 1. Put the frozen meatballs in a 6 quart slow cooker. 2. Whisk the grape jelly and chili sauce together. 3. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat. 4. Cover and cook on low 4 hours or high 2 to 3 hours, stirring once or twice. 5. Check that the centers reach 165 F. 6. Switch to Warm and serve with toothpicks.

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

Creamy Swedish meatballs are a holiday buffet favorite. The meatballs simmer in a rich beef gravy with a hint of allspice and nutmeg, and sour cream goes in at the end for that silky finish. Serve them with toothpicks for a party or over egg noodles for dinner. They are some of the coziest crockpot party meatballs you can make. Lingonberry jam on the side?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 2 cups beef broth, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1 cup sour cream, chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the broth, soup, Worcestershire, allspice and nutmeg. 3. Pour over the meatballs and stir. 4. Cover and cook on low 4 hours. 5. Stir in the sour cream and cook 15 minutes more. 6. Sprinkle with parsley and keep on Warm.

Honey Garlic Meatballs

Honey garlic meatballs have a sticky, sweet and savory glaze that kids and grown-ups both love. Honey, soy sauce and lots of garlic cook down into a shiny sauce in the slow cooker. A little cornstarch at the end makes it extra glossy. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving. Sweet or savory: which side are you on?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 3/4 cup honey, 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce, 6 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water, sesame seeds, green onions.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup and vinegar. 3. Pour over and stir. 4. Cook on low 4 hours or high 2 to 3 hours. 5. Stir in the cornstarch mix and cook 15 minutes until thick. 6. Top with sesame seeds and green onions.

Hawaiian Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs

Pineapple and teriyaki give these meatballs a tropical sweet and salty flavor that feels like a vacation in the middle of winter. Chunks of pineapple and red pepper cook right in the sauce, so they look colorful on the buffet. They are perfect for a holiday open house. It is one of the brightest crockpot party meatballs on this list. Pineapple: yes or no?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks with juice, 1 cup teriyaki sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 red bell pepper (chunks), 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp cornstarch, sesame seeds, green onions.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs, pineapple with juice and pepper to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the teriyaki, brown sugar and ginger and pour over. 3. Cook on low 4 hours. 4. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of the hot sauce and stir it back in. 5. Cook 15 minutes until glossy. 6. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Game Day Buffalo Meatballs

If your crowd loves buffalo wings, these meatballs are the easy, no-mess version. Hot sauce and melted butter make the classic buffalo glaze, and a drizzle of ranch on top cools things down. Serve them with celery sticks and blue cheese dip for the full game day experience. These are the boldest crockpot party meatballs here. How spicy can you handle?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 cup buffalo hot sauce, 1/2 cup butter (melted), 2 tbsp honey, 1 tsp garlic powder, ranch dressing, celery sticks, blue cheese dip.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the hot sauce, butter, honey and garlic powder. 3. Pour over the meatballs and stir. 4. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. 5. Drizzle with ranch just before serving. 6. Serve with celery and blue cheese dip.

Apricot BBQ Meatballs

Apricot preserves and barbecue sauce make a fruity, smoky glaze that is a little more grown-up than grape jelly. A splash of apple cider vinegar keeps it from being too sweet. These meatballs are just as good spooned over rice for an easy dinner the next day. Do you like your barbecue sweet or smoky?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 jar (18 oz) apricot preserves, 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Stir together the preserves, barbecue sauce, vinegar and paprika. 3. Pour over and stir to coat. 4. Cook on low 4 hours or high 2 to 3 hours. 5. Stir and check they reach 165 F. 6. Sprinkle with parsley and keep on Warm.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs are a retro party classic that never goes out of style. A simple sauce of pineapple juice, vinegar, brown sugar and ketchup gets thick and shiny with chunks of pineapple and bell pepper. They taste like your favorite takeout, but party size. Serve with toothpicks or over rice. Did your family serve these at parties too?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (juice saved), 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup rice vinegar, 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 green bell pepper (chunks), 2 tbsp cornstarch.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs, pineapple and pepper to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup and soy sauce. 3. Pour over and stir. 4. Cook on low 4 hours. 5. Mix the cornstarch with a little water and stir in. 6. Cook 15 minutes until thick and glossy.

Crockpot Party Meatballs With Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Not every party meatball needs a sweet glaze. These are coated in a rich garlic butter and parmesan cream sauce that tastes like an Italian restaurant. Serve them with toothpicks and a basket of toasted baguette slices for dipping in the extra sauce. They are the most elegant crockpot party meatballs you can make. Would you dunk the bread?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 4 tbsp butter, 6 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 cup grated parmesan, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Melt the butter with the garlic for 1 minute in a small pan. 3. Pour the garlic butter, cream, broth and Italian seasoning over the meatballs. 4. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. 5. Stir in the parmesan until melted and creamy. 6. Top with parsley and keep on Warm.

Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Meatballs

Korean gochujang chili paste is having a big moment, and it makes a sticky sweet and spicy party glaze. Mixed with honey, soy sauce and garlic, it coats every meatball in a deep red shine. Start with a little if your crowd is spice shy. Serve them on a bed of lettuce leaves for a pretty platter. Have you cooked with gochujang yet?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1/3 cup gochujang, 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, sesame seeds, green onions, lettuce leaves to serve.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar and sesame oil. 3. Pour over and stir to coat. 4. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. 5. Stir well so every meatball is glazed. 6. Serve on lettuce with sesame seeds and green onions.

Maple Mustard Meatballs

Maple syrup and grainy mustard make a sweet and tangy glaze that tastes like the holidays. It is especially good with turkey or chicken meatballs. A spoon of apple cider adds a cozy fall note. These crockpot party meatballs are easy to make ahead and reheat for a crowd. They are one of the most underrated crockpot party meatballs. Maple fan?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 3/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1/3 cup whole grain mustard, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup apple cider, 1/2 tsp black pepper, chopped thyme.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the maple syrup, both mustards, cider and pepper. 3. Pour over the meatballs and stir. 4. Cook on low 4 hours. 5. Stir to coat and check they reach 165 F. 6. Sprinkle with thyme before serving.

Turkey Meatballs With Cranberry Orange Glaze

These lighter turkey meatballs taste like Thanksgiving in one bite. A glaze of whole berry cranberry sauce, orange zest and a little maple turns them festive red and shiny. They are perfect for a Friendsgiving potluck or a holiday open house. Leftovers are great spooned over a baked potato for lunch. Would you serve these at Thanksgiving?

You will need: 1 bag (24 oz) frozen turkey meatballs, 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup orange juice, zest of 1 orange, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, pinch of cinnamon, chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Add the turkey meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the cranberry sauce, orange juice, zest, maple, mustard and cinnamon. 3. Pour over and stir. 4. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. 5. Stir gently and check they reach 165 F. 6. Garnish with parsley and orange zest.

French Onion Meatballs

French onion soup flavor in party meatball form. Sweet caramelized onions, beef broth and a little thyme make a rich gravy, and melted Swiss cheese goes on top at the end. Serve them over mashed potatoes for dinner or with toothpicks for a party. It is pure comfort. Swiss or provolone on top?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 2 large onions (thinly sliced), 2 tbsp butter, 2 cups beef broth, 1 packet dry onion soup mix, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese.

How to make it: 1. Cook the onions in butter over medium heat 15 minutes until golden. 2. Add the meatballs and onions to the slow cooker. 3. Whisk the broth, onion soup mix and thyme and pour over. 4. Cook on low 4 hours. 5. Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook 15 minutes. 6. Sprinkle with Swiss cheese, cover until melted and serve.

Root Beer Glazed Meatballs

Root beer is the secret ingredient in this sticky, sweet glaze that kids go crazy for. It cooks down with ketchup, brown sugar and a little mustard into a sauce that tastes like a fun barbecue. Use regular root beer, not diet, so the sauce thickens. These crockpot party meatballs are a great conversation starter on any buffet. Would you guess the secret ingredient?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 2 cups root beer (not diet), 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, chopped chives.

How to make it: 1. Simmer the root beer in a saucepan until reduced by half, about 15 minutes. 2. Whisk in the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard and Worcestershire. 3. Put the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over. 4. Cook on low 4 hours. 5. Stir until every meatball is glazed. 6. Sprinkle with chives and keep on Warm.

Crockpot Party Meatballs With Thai Sweet Chili

Bottled Thai sweet chili sauce makes one of the easiest glazes of all: sweet, a little spicy and bright red. A squeeze of lime and some fresh cilantro make it taste homemade. These are perfect next to a veggie tray at a holiday open house. Of all the crockpot party meatballs, this one takes the least work. Cilantro: love it or hate it?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 1/2 cups Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, juice of 1 lime, 2 cloves garlic, sesame seeds, sliced red chili, fresh cilantro.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Whisk the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice and garlic. 3. Pour over and stir. 4. Cook on low 3 to 4 hours. 5. Stir and check the centers reach 165 F. 6. Top with sesame seeds, chili and cilantro.

Jalapeno Popper Meatballs

Everything you love about jalapeno poppers, in a creamy party meatball. The sauce is a mix of cream cheese, cheddar and diced jalapenos, with crispy bacon sprinkled on top right before serving. Seed the jalapenos for a milder dip. These crockpot party meatballs disappear fast at game day parties. Want more ideas? See our holiday appetizers your guests will talk about. Mild or extra spicy?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 8 oz cream cheese (cubed), 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 2 jalapenos (diced), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled), green onions.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Scatter the cream cheese, cheddar and jalapenos on top. 3. Pour in the broth and add the garlic powder. 4. Cook on low 3 hours, stirring every hour until creamy. 5. Stir well to coat. 6. Top with bacon and green onions just before serving.

Crockpot Party Meatballs in Marinara and Mozzarella

Meatballs in marinara are the simplest party food there is: one jar of sauce, one bag of meatballs and a handful of cheese. Melted mozzarella on top makes them feel like a pizza night. Serve with toothpicks or tuck them into small dinner rolls for guests to build their own bites. These crockpot party meatballs are always a kid favorite. Mozzarella or provolone?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce, 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, fresh basil.

How to make it: 1. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. 2. Pour the marinara and tomato sauce over and stir in the seasoning and pepper flakes. 3. Cover and cook on low 4 hours. 4. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top. 5. Cover 15 minutes until melted. 6. Top with basil and serve.

Cajun Butter Meatballs

A little Cajun spice turns plain meatballs into a bold party snack. Brown the meatballs in the oven first for extra flavor, then toss them in a garlicky Cajun butter sauce in the slow cooker. A splash of honey balances the heat. They pair well with a cold dip like ranch or remoulade. Do you like Cajun food?

You will need: 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully cooked meatballs (or 2 lb homemade), 1/2 cup butter (melted), 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp hot sauce, 1/2 cup chicken broth, chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Spread the meatballs on a sheet pan and bake at 400 F for 10 minutes to brown. 2. Move them to the slow cooker. 3. Whisk the butter, Cajun seasoning, garlic, honey, hot sauce and broth. 4. Pour over and stir. 5. Cook on low 2 to 3 hours. 6. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Crockpot Party Meatballs From Scratch, Plus Safety Tips

Want to skip the frozen bag? Make a big batch of tender homemade meatballs, bake them, cool them and freeze them on a tray, then use them in any sauce above. For safe serving, cook frozen meatballs until they reach 165 F inside, keep the slow cooker on Warm during the party, and do not leave food out longer than two hours. For more ideas, see more party meatball ideas from home cooks. Homemade or frozen?

You will need: 2 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork), 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup milk, 2 eggs, 1/2 small onion (grated), 2 cloves garlic, 1/3 cup grated parmesan, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 2 tbsp chopped parsley.

How to make it: 1. Heat the oven to 400 F and line two baking sheets. 2. Soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for 5 minutes. 3. Mix in everything else gently with your hands. 4. Roll into 1 inch balls, about 60 total. 5. Bake 15 to 18 minutes until they reach 165 F. 6. Cool, freeze on the trays, then store in freezer bags up to 3 months.