Description

Sweet, spicy, and irresistibly sticky, Hot Pepper Jelly Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. These tender meatballs are simmered in a bold and tangy pepper jelly sauce that’s both fiery and sweet, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, potluck, or holiday gathering, this easy slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs (Homemade or Frozen):
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp parsley (optional)
or substitute with 1½ lbs frozen fully cooked meatballs

For the Sauce:
• 1 cup hot pepper jelly (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (for umami depth)
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs (if using homemade)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and parsley.
Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Set aside or cool and refrigerate if using later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan or directly in your slow cooker, combine hot pepper jelly, ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce.
Whisk until smooth and heated through.
Taste and add red pepper flakes if desired for extra spice.

Step 3: Combine & Cook
Add the meatballs to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 2–3 hours or on high for 1–1½ hours.
Stovetop Method: Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and glazed.

Step 4: Serve Warm
Transfer to a serving bowl or keep warm in the slow cooker.
Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking or spoon over rice or mashed potatoes for a meal.

Notes

Use Quality Jelly – Choose a pepper jelly with a good balance of sweet and spice.
Brown the Meatballs – Adds extra flavor and helps them hold up in the sauce.
Keep Warm – Use the slow cooker’s “warm” setting during parties.
Make Ahead – Prepare meatballs and sauce in advance, then heat and serve.
Control the Heat – Adjust with red pepper flakes or mix in a spoonful of honey to tone it down.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1–3 hours (depending on method)
Cuisine: American