There’s something irresistible about tender, juicy meatballs simmering in a sweet and tangy sauce—it’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from any buffet table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a game night, or a casual weekend get-together, these meatballs will steal the show. The combination of fruity sweetness from marmalade or jelly, a zesty kick from chili sauce, and just the right touch of spice from hot sauce makes every bite a flavor explosion. Best of all, this recipe is nearly effortless, making it perfect for busy hosts.
Ingredients for Sweet & Tangy Holiday Party Meatballs
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1 bottle chili sauce, 12 oz (340 g)
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1 jar orange marmalade or apple jelly, 18 oz (510 g)
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1 cup (240 ml) orange juice or apple juice
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2 dashes hot sauce (such as Frank’s, Tabasco, etc.)
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1 bag frozen meatballs, approximately 60 pieces, 2 lb (0.9 kg)
How to Make Sweet & Tangy Holiday Party Meatballs
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In a large slow cooker, combine the chili sauce, your choice of marmalade or apple jelly, juice, and hot sauce. Don’t worry if the mixture looks lumpy—these will smooth out as the sauce heats.
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Add the frozen meatballs directly to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Cover with the lid.
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Cook on the low setting for 6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Serve hot straight from the slow cooker.
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Adjust the amount of hot sauce to taste—add more if your crowd enjoys an extra kick.
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Oven method: If you prefer, bake the meatballs instead. Place them in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and cook at 325°F (165°C) for about 90 minutes.
A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
These sweet and tangy meatballs are more than just a party snack—they’re the kind of dish that guests ask for again and again. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you tender meatballs coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, or spoon them over rice for a hearty meal. However you serve them, don’t expect leftovers!
