Save to Pinterest Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly easy, these cherry BBQ meatballs are the perfect party appetizer or family dinner bold flavors with minimal effort and budget-friendly ingredients.
I enjoy serving these meatballs at family gatherings every time as they always disappear quickly.
Ingredients
- Meatballs: 32 oz (900 g) frozen fully cooked meatballs
- Sauce: 1 cup (250 ml) barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- Sauce: 1 cup (290 g) cherry preserves or cherry jam
- Sauce: 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
- Sauce: 1 tbsp (15 g) brown sugar
- Sauce: 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Sauce: 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Sauce: 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Step 2:
- Place the frozen meatballs in the bowl of a slow cooker.
- Step 3:
- Pour the cherry BBQ sauce mixture over the meatballs, stirring gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.
- Step 4:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thick and glossy. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.
- Step 5:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the slow cooker and enjoying these comfort meatballs together.
Notes
Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a main dish. For a spicier kick add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (4-quart or larger) Mixing bowl Whisk Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat if meatballs contain breadcrumbs always check packaging for allergens May contain Soy egg or milk depending on meatball and barbecue sauce brands Always verify labels for allergens if sensitive.
Save to Pinterest These cherry BBQ meatballs bring flavor and ease together for a delightful meal.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can fresh meatballs be used instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cooked meatballs can replace frozen ones; just ensure they are cooked through before adding the sauce to prevent overcooking.
- → How long should I cook the meatballs in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 3 hours until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce thickens with a glossy finish.
- → Is there a way to make the sauce spicier?
Add about 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture for a mild heat boost.
- → What can I substitute for cherry preserves?
Grape jelly can be used as an alternative, offering a classic twist while maintaining sweetness and texture.
- → Can this dish be served as a main course?
Yes, serve the meatballs over rice or alongside vegetables to create a satisfying main dish.
- → Are there any common allergens to be aware of?
Depending on the meatballs and sauce used, there may be wheat, soy, egg, or milk; always check labels if allergic.