Easy Meatballs For A Group
These sweet and savory meatballs are perfect for parties or casual gatherings, featuring a flavorful combination of barbecue sauce and apricot jam. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, they offer a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish with a delightful glaze that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill the slow cooker with 80 to 100 frozen small meatballs.
- Combine the 16 oz. jar of barbecue sauce and the 16 oz. jar of apricot jam in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce and jam mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use frozen meatballs that are uniform in size for even cooking. You can substitute the barbecue sauce with a teriyaki or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought meatballs or making your own from ground beef or turkey. Adjust the amount of apricot jam to taste, as it can add sweetness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs make an excellent appetizer for parties or game days. Serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. They pair wonderfully with sides like Cucumber And Raisin Salad or Fruit Cup With Lemon Creme. For a complete meal, consider serving them over rice or alongside a fresh vegetable salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The meatballs can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a slow cooker on low or in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of barbecue sauce can help keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Meatballs For A Group contains roughly 1684 calories, with 87g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (174% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce mixture a day ahead. Simply layer the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker and cover them with sauce. Refrigerate overnight, then cook on low for 4 hours the next day. This makes for a convenient option for gatherings.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with various sides. They pair beautifully with a hearty salad or a side of orange raisin carrots for a colorful plate. Consider serving them alongside Sparkling Harvest Cider for a refreshing drink option.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! To add some heat, mix in a few tablespoons of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes into the barbecue sauce and apricot jam mixture. This will give your meatballs a delicious spicy kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).