The Frugal Girls

  • HOME
  • RECIPES
  • CROCKPOT
  • PARTY
  • GIFT IDEAS
  • CRAFT
  • FREEBIES
  • SAVE MONEY
  • BABY
  • TRAVEL
  • SUBSCRIBE

Crockpot Meatballs (Just 3 Ingredients!)

October 7, 2024 By Heidi 30 Comments

I may get paid for ads or purchases made through links in this post.

This outrageously delicious Crockpot Meatballs Recipe serves up an easy appetizer for your holiday parties, and is a must-have for Game Day!  They’re ALWAYS the hit of the party!  Just 5 minutes of prep and you’re done!

Or… transform these tasty meatballs into a flavor packed dinner when you serve them up alongside these Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes!

Crockpot Meatballs Recipe

Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

Crockpot Meatballs

Looking for an easy meatball party appetizer?  Or a delicious Cranberry twist on your meatball sandwich?

You’re going to LOVE this easy 3 ingredient Crockpot Meatballs Recipe!

The tasty glaze is sweet, and tangy, and oh-so-tasty!

Tiffany writes: “Just do it! Best and easiest recipe ever. These have been my Thanksgiving tradition every year and everyone texts me a week before get togethers requesting them. 5 out of 5 stars!”

Your guests will go crazy for this deliciously easy Cranberry Meatballs Appetizer!  With just 5 minutes of prep, this is one of the EASIEST appetizers you’ll ever make!

Plus, they’re just 3 easy ingredients, and always the STAR of the party!!

Seriously… when you combine cranberry sauce with chili sauce, the flavor of the meatballs goes through the roof!

And when they’re done cooking, you can keep them warm when you serve them straight from your slow cooker with a side of toothpicks.  So EASY!!

It will be our little secret just how easy they were to make.

So what are you waiting for?  This crowd-pleasing finger food is the perfect way to kick off your next party!

Go grab your Crockpot, some Cranberry Jelly, and Chili Sauce!  It’s time to get this party started!

Here’s what you’ll need to do to make the Best Crockpot Meatballs for your next party…

Related: 75 Best Appetizer Recipes for Parties

Can I Cook Frozen Meatballs In Slow Cooker?

So are you wondering: Do I thaw meatballs before putting in crockpot?  The answer is NO for this Crockpot Meatballs recipe.  Today we’ll be making frozen meatballs in the crockpot!

For this recipe, you’ll simply place your frozen meatballs right into the slow cooker.  Then you’ll cover the meatballs with your 2 ingredient sauce.

That’s all you have to do.

These frozen meatballs really are SO easy to make!

Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs

Crockpot Meatballs Ingredients

Pick up these 3 Easy Crockpot Ingredients at the grocery store to create the ultimate meatball appetizer that everyone will be fighting over…

  • Frozen Meatballs
  • Jellied Cranberry Sauce
  • Chili Sauce

You can also make these delicious cranberry meatballs using this easy Homemade Meatballs Recipe!

Related: How To Get The Best Walmart Grocery Deals

Recipe Crockpot Meatballs

How To Make Crockpot Meatballs

You won’t believe how EASY it is to make the best Party Crockpot Meatballs at home!

It takes just a few easy steps to create this delicious meatball masterpiece.

Here’s what you’ll do…

1. To get started, grab out a 5 – 6 quart Crock Pot.

2. Add your ingredients and cook.

3. When done, serve straight from slow cooker with toothpicks, or serve up as a delicious appetizer or dinner entreé.

Scroll down for the printable recipe card with detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Frozen Crockpot Meatballs

What To Serve With Crockpot Meatballs

Are you wondering what to serve with your crockpot meatballs?

Typically these crockpot meatballs are served as a party appetizer or for holiday dinners.

But if you want to change things up a bit, go for it!

Here are some more delicious ideas…

  • Take as leftovers for a protein packed lunch
  • For Dinner with a side of Loaded Smashed Potatoes
  • On a Sub Sandwich Roll
  • Take to a Holiday Potluck

Crockpot Meatballs

Crockpot Meatballs Reviews

Here’s what your frugal friends are saying about this Slow Cooker Meatball Recipe…

One reader writes: “Saucy, spicy and sweet!  Perfect for halftime.”

Kim writes: “Sweet and tangy!”

Tiffany writes: “Just do it! Best and easiest recipe ever. These have been my Thanksgiving tradition every year and everyone texts me a week before get togethers requesting them. 5 out of 5 stars!”

Ryan writes: “These are the best party meatballs.”

Rebecca writes: “This was a very easy recipe and every time I make it the compliments are plentiful!!”

Lisa writes: “Such a great snack for game day!”

Jennifer writes: “This is a huge hit when I make it! 10/10 recommend”

Tiffany writes: “I make these at least every other week!!!  Everyone who tries them loves them!!!”

Cathy writes: “Meatballs were a hit, perfect balance of sweet & tangy.”

Mary Jo writes: “This is my go-to meatball recipe.  It’s so easy to make and tastes yummy.  I’ve gotten numerous requests for this recipe.”

Amber writes: “I had a mock Thanksgiving dinner one night and made turkey meatballs with this sauce.  I honestly did not expect it to be as tasty as it was!”

Leslie writes: “This was really good.  Makes a perfect appetizer.”

Skadia writes: “Made these for a Christmas Party – they were very well received and no left overs!”

Angela writes: “Made these for Christmas Eve!  Everyone loved them and they were SO easy!  Definitely a keeper!”

Jasmine writes: “These were a hit at the office holiday potluck!”

Crockpot Meatballs Recipe

Kristin writes: “I made this for Christmas and it was a big hit! Delicious”

Mandie writes: “Super easy and delicious! My son loved them.”

Lisa writes: “I make these for parties.  Easy and well liked.  Use my own meatballs that I bake in the oven, then add to sauce and keep warm.”

Jenna writes: “Love these!!!!! So easy! I made a double batch and they were gone in no time.”

Devon writes: “Super easy to make! Change of pace from the grape jelly ones.”

Melissa writes: “I made these for Thanksgiving and added 1 tbsp Dijon mustard. Delish”

Jessica writes: “My kids love this. We use this recipe to make meatball subs. You can also substitute grape or apple jelly instead of cranberry sauce. All very good!”


Want More EASY Ideas? Sign up for my Free Email Newsletter!

Did You Enjoy This Recipe? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Leave a comment & review below!

Pin Recipe
Share by Email
Print Recipe

Crockpot Meatballs

This Crockpot Meatballs Recipe makes a fabulous appetizer for your holiday parties, and a hands-down must-have for Game Day!
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time2 hours hrs
Total Time2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Ingredients

  • 26 ounces Fully-Cooked Frozen Meatballs Try this Easy Meatball Recipe or use a bag of store-bought meatballs (approx. 26 oz.)
  • 14 ounces Jellied Cranberry Sauce 1 can
  • 12 ounces Heinz Chili Sauce

Instructions

  • Combine Cranberry Jelly and Chili Sauce in a bowl, and stir until well combined.
  • Based upon your preferences, you can alter the proportions of cranberry jelly (sweet) and chili sauce (tangy).
  • Add Frozen Meatballs to Crockpot and cover with sauce mixture.
  • Heat on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours, stirring occasionally. Once they’re nice and hot, let simmer on LOW or WARM setting, and serve straight from your slow cooker. ENJOY!
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

More Easy Appetizer Recipes

These get gobbled up so quickly at my house! They’re sweet… and tangy… and super-easy to make!

So are you craving even more of the easiest Easy Appetizer Recipes ever?  I’ve got some ideas I know you’re really gonna love.

Have fun exploring these yummy recipe ideas below…

Crockpot Easy Meatball Slider Recipe (Sweet’n Tangy)

Crockpot Meatball Sliders are the perfect addition to your parties, and fabulous for Game Day gatherings, too!  Yay for Crockpots!

Crockpot Meatball Slider Recipe

Crockpot BBQ Ranch Meatballs Recipe

This Easy Crockpot BBQ Ranch Meatballs recipe will be the hit of every party!

Crockpot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs Recipe

This Crockpot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs Recipe packs a flavor punch that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Instant Pot Meatballs Appetizer Recipe (BBQ Coke)

Tantalize and tempt everyone when you make this irresistible BBQ Coke Instant Pot Meatballs Appetizer!

Crockpot Dr Pepper Meatballs Recipe

Make Dr. Pepper your new favorite ingredient with this easy Crockpot Dr Pepper Meatballs Recipe!

Easy Crock Pot Italian Meatballs

Whether you need an appetizer or an entree, these easy Crock Pot Italian Meatballs deliver loads of flavor!

Crockpot Italian Meatball Recipe from TheFrugalGirls.com

Easy Crockpot Orange Glazed Meatballs

This sweet and sticky barbecue Orange Glazed Meatballs Recipe creates a slow cooked masterpiece that is absolutely divine!  So EASY, too!

Easy Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Make these meatballs as an appetizer, or serve as a main course with rice for dinner.  Have a little party no matter the day!

Easy Crockpot Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Crockpot BBQ Coca-Cola Kielbasa Recipe

Every tasty bite of this Crockpot BBQ Coca-Cola Kielbasa Recipe will send you on a flavor adventure!

Crockpot BBQ Coca Cola Kielbasa Recipe Easy

Crock Pot Kielbasa BBQ Ranch

The combination of ranch and barbecue make it pretty much irresistible!  So go grab the toothpicks, and let your guests go to town!

Crockpot Bacon Wrapped Smokies

This Crockpot Bacon Wrapped Smokies Recipe is an absolutely delicious and mouth-watering appetizer!

75 Best Appetizer Recipes for Parties

These simple appetizer dishes are easy to make, packed with flavor, and will vanish before your eyes!  They’re guaranteed to be the hit of any party!

201 Easy Crock Pot Recipes

Whether you’re on the hunt for easy crockpot meals for busy nights, or the best Crockpot Party menu with fun Appetizers, Dips, Drinks, ands Desserts… it’s time for some tasty ideas!

Easy Crockpot Recipes

Easy Recipes To Feed a Crowd + Cheap Ways To Feed A Party!

So whether you’re in need of some cheap ways to feed a party, easy potluck recipes, or cheap family meals for those out of town guests, these easy recipes to feed a crowd will save the day!

Recipes To Feed a Crowd + Cheap Ways To Feed A Party!

How to Save HUGE at The Grocery Store

How To Save Money At Sam’s Club

Start scoring yourself fantabulous Sam’s Club Deals and Steals when you’re prepped with these little-known shopping hacks!

Sam's Club Deals

How To Save Money At Walmart

Make your next trip to Walmart extra thrifty when you use my favorite money saving tips for scoring the best Walmart Grocery Deals!

Walmart Grocery Deals

So have you tried this perfect for kickoff Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs Recipe yet?

Leave a comment & share!

Crockpot Meatballs Easy Chili Sauce Cranberry Meatball Recipe

Cranberry Meatballs in the Crockpot Recipe at TheFrugalGirls.com

Cranberry Meatballs Recipe at TheFrugalGirls.com
Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs Recipe from TheFrugalGirls.com

Filed Under: Appetizers, Recipes Tagged With: Beef, Cranberry, Game Day, Meatballs

Comments

  1. Don't Miss Out... Subscribe Now!

      Built with ConvertKit
    • Jordanne || Ofaglasgowgirl says

      November 2, 2024 at 12:03 pm

      5 stars
      You know, it’s been a long time since I actually used my crackpot but I think I’ll have to as meatballs are one of my favourites! Thank you for sharing, love how little ingredients are needed, these really would be perfect for whipping up for get togethers.

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        November 2, 2024 at 1:34 pm

        The Crock Pot really is the perfect tool for serving up party appetizers!

        Reply
    • David @ Spiced says

      October 14, 2024 at 4:08 am

      5 stars
      Talk about an easy and delicious appetizer idea! The spicy and sweet combo would be absolutely mouthwatering here. With the holiday season coming up, this would be such an easy appetizer idea for parties!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 14, 2024 at 11:02 am

        You really can’t go wrong with these sweet and spicy meatballs at a party!

        Reply
    • Allie Mackin says

      October 11, 2024 at 12:51 pm

      Oh wow, these do not look like they are to hard to make or are too involved. And agree they are a good go to for game days. Thanks for posting this tasty recipe!

      Allie of
      http://www.allienyc.com

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 14, 2024 at 11:02 am

        They really are crazy easy to prepare!

        Reply
    • Raymund says

      October 9, 2024 at 8:23 pm

      5 stars
      These Meatballs sound like the ultimate party dish, so simple but packed with flavor! I love how you can just throw the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do all the work. The combination of cranberry and chili sauce is a genius twist, and I can already imagine how sweet, tangy, and delicious it must be. Yum!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 14, 2024 at 11:03 am

        These slow cooker meatballs really are quite tantalizing!

        Reply
    • Kim Lange says

      October 9, 2024 at 7:14 am

      5 stars
      These are perfect for gameday, parties and anytime you want an easy appetizer that everyone want to devour! Can’t go wrong! YUM!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:01 pm

        They really are so good. I can never have just one!

        Reply
    • Healthy World Cuisine says

      October 8, 2024 at 6:14 pm

      5 stars
      Sweet and spicy! The perfect treat for your taste buds. The best part it is a dump and forget about kind of recipe so you can enjoy the game but have a hot tailgating treat ready by halftime.

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:02 pm

        I loved your tailgating idea. These cranberry chili meatballs would be perfect for that!

        Reply
    • CoCo says

      October 8, 2024 at 10:51 am

      All the guys in my family LOVE meatballs, Heidi, but none of the girls eat meat so they rarely get them. I’m so excited for this recipe because I’ll be able to surprise them at our next get together and they’ll be tickled pink. Big hugs, CoCo

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:03 pm

        I think your guys will love them. My three guys literally hover around the crockpot, devouring them one right after the other!

        Reply
    • Her Digital Coffee says

      October 8, 2024 at 8:38 am

      5 stars
      What an easy recipe! It’s perfect just in time for fall and cozy meals. Thanks for sharing Heidi!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:04 pm

        It really is so easy… and the cranberry flavor makes these the perfect Fall snack!

        Reply
    • Jeff the Chef says

      October 8, 2024 at 6:42 am

      I have a friend who used to make meatballs something like this, and bring them to potluck. Everyone always raved over them! I love cranberry, so this is really interesting to me. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:04 pm

        You really can’t go wrong with these meatballs. The flavor is outstanding!

        Reply
    • Veronica Lee says

      October 8, 2024 at 5:37 am

      5 stars
      What a delish and easy to make appetizer!
      I love that you can just toss everything into a crockpot and let it do the work!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 12:05 pm

        Not having to fuss over food makes a party even more fun!

        Reply
    • Kathrine Eldridge says

      October 8, 2024 at 4:10 am

      5 stars
      I just love this appetizer for parties! So easy to make and so yummy. Thanks for sharing!

      https://www.kathrineeldridge.com

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 11:55 am

        I am so glad you like it. It really is the ultimate party snack.

        Reply
    • Lisa's Notebook says

      October 8, 2024 at 1:10 am

      5 stars
      I had no idea you could use frozen food in a slow cooker, this is such an eye opener – frozen meatballs are going on my shopping list next week!

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 11:56 am

        No having to thaw the meatballs ahead of time really is a game changer!

        Reply
    • Judee says

      October 7, 2024 at 6:21 pm

      This type of recipe is always a big hit a parties and holidays. Looks delicious and making it in a crock pot is a real plus.

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 9, 2024 at 11:58 am

        I agree… and the crock pot keeps these tasty meatballs hot and ready all party long!

        Reply
    • Michelle says

      October 7, 2024 at 4:42 pm

      5 stars
      What a fantastic and EASY appetizer to whip up for the holidays or game nights! Love that you can dump it into a crockpot and leave it to do its thing 🙂

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 7, 2024 at 4:54 pm

        It really is crazy easy to prepare… and the sauce is heavenly!

        Reply
    • delphine B says

      October 7, 2024 at 12:08 pm

      5 stars
      Avec cette sauce cela doit être un délice
      Bonne soirée

      Reply
      • Heidi says

        October 7, 2024 at 4:53 pm

        La sauce est vraiment délicieuse!

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    About Heidi Picture
    Hi, I'm Heidi... I'm so glad you're here! I'm the Frugal Girl living here in sunny AZ with my hubby, and love sharing Easy Recipes & Frugal Living Tips!
    More About Heidi >>

    Most Popular Right Now!

    Easy Crockpot Taco Soup Recipe (The BEST!)

    Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe Easy

    Strawberry Jam Recipe for Canning (Best Jam Ever!!)

    Cracker Barrel Menu Hacks

    17 Cracker Barrel Menu Hacks You Probably Didn’t Know!

    Birthday Freebies for Adults and Kids List

    201 Birthday Freebies For Adults & Kids in 2025! (Treat Yourself)



    Copyright © 2009 - 2025 | About | Press | Contact | Disclosure Policy | Privacy Policy | Subscribe | Pinterest | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube