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Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot (Try It Today!) – Easy, Sweet & Savory Perfection

If you love recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal effort, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Style. This dish is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy — a true party favorite and weeknight lifesaver all in one! Imagine tender, juicy chicken or beef meatballs simmering in a glossy sauce made from grape jelly, sweet chili sauce, and pineapple tidbits. The result? An irresistible glaze that clings to every bite, creating that addictive balance of sweet heat that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them as a hearty appetizer, an easy family dinner, or a potluck crowd-pleaser, these crockpot meatballs deliver every single time. With only a few ingredients and virtually no prep, this recipe proves that great flavor doesn’t have to mean hard work. 🍯✨
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible Sweet Chili Meatballs:
🍍 Fruits & Vegetables
  • 1 20-ounce can pineapple tidbits, drained (reserve a few tablespoons of juice for extra sweetness)
🍯 Condiments
  • 20 ounces grape jelly
  • 12 ounces sweet red chili sauce
🧊 Frozen Foods
  • 1 48-ounce bag fully cooked frozen homestyle chicken or beef meatballs (about 50–60 meatballs)
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Equipment

  • This recipe is about as simple as it gets — and that includes the cleanup! Here’s all you’ll need:
  • Crockpot or slow cooker (4–6 quart)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener
  • Serving spoon or ladle

Method
 

  1. This is one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make — no stovetop, no oven, just set it and forget it!
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine grape jelly, sweet red chili sauce, and 2–3 tablespoons of pineapple juice (optional).
  2. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
  3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if needed — add a splash of extra chili sauce for more kick!
Step 2: Layer the Meatballs
  1. Add the frozen meatballs to the bottom of your crockpot.
  2. Pour the sauce mixture over the top.
  3. Add the pineapple tidbits, spreading them evenly throughout the pot.
  4. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
  1. Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are hot and the sauce is thickened.
  2. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even coating.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Once the sauce is glossy and bubbling, give everything a final stir. Serve warm — straight from the crockpot — or transfer to a serving dish.
  2. These Sweet Chili Meatballs can be enjoyed on their own, over rice, or even in slider buns for a sweet and spicy sandwich! 🍴

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
To Store:
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze cooled meatballs and sauce together for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To Reheat:
Reheat in the crockpot on Low for 1 hour or microwave in portions until hot.
Stir occasionally to make sure the sauce stays smooth and glossy.
🥄 Variations
Give your Sweet Chili Meatballs a twist with these fun and flavorful ideas:
Spicy-Sweet Version: Add 1–2 teaspoons of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Tropical Twist: Add sliced bell peppers and extra pineapple chunks for a Hawaiian flair.
Honey Garlic Blend: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic into the sauce for a sticky-sweet twist.
Asian-Inspired: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for depth and umami.
BBQ Fusion: Replace half the chili sauce with smoky barbecue sauce for a tangy kick.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based meatballs — the sauce is already vegan-friendly!
Ginger Pineapple Upgrade: Stir in 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for bright, aromatic flavor.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes! Just brown them first, then cook in the sauce as directed.
2. What type of meatballs work best?
Beef, chicken, or turkey meatballs all taste amazing with this sauce — choose your favorite!
3. Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes — simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for 25–30 minutes.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, with sweetness from the jelly and chili sauce. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less chili sauce.
5. What can I serve these with?
They’re delicious with rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or even toothpicks as appetizers.
6. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely — use a larger crockpot or two separate ones.
7. What if I don’t have grape jelly?
You can substitute with apricot or peach jam for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
8. How do I keep the sauce from getting too runny?
Make sure to drain the pineapple well, and cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes if you want a thicker sauce.
9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — just use gluten-free meatballs and check that your chili sauce is gluten-free.
10. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the sauce and store it separately. When ready, combine everything in the crockpot and cook as directed.
🏁 Conclusion
These Sweet Chili Meatballs Crockpot Style are the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. With only a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll have a dish that’s both effortless and unforgettable.
The sweet chili and grape jelly create a perfect sticky glaze, while the pineapple adds a touch of tropical brightness. The result is a dish that feels festive, comforting, and deliciously addictive.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, feeding a crowd, or just want a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. It’s proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special — a sweet and spicy masterpiece right from your crockpot!