Save 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 first made these meatballs for a weekend game night and they disappeared in minutes: everyone wanted the recipe. They are now my go-to for holiday parties or casual potlucks—always a hit.
Ingredients
- Frozen fully cooked meatballs (32 oz/900 g): Use your favorite store-bought brand for convenience.
- Barbecue sauce (1 cup/250 ml): Pick a classic or smoky version.
- Cherry preserves or cherry jam (1 cup/290 g): Adds fruity sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp/30 ml): Balances flavors with tanginess.
- Brown sugar (1 tbsp/15 g): Deepens the sweet note.
- Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): For subtle aroma.
- Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Added savory depth.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 tsp): Mild kick.
Instructions
- Mix Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Prepare Meatballs:
- Place frozen meatballs in the bowl of a slow cooker.
- Combine and Cook:
- Pour sauce mixture over meatballs and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours until meatballs are heated through and sauce is thick and glossy. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.
- Serve:
- Serve meatballs hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Save 
Save This recipe is a favorite when my family gathers for movie nights: the kids love sneaking the tangy sauce with a spoon, and adults always ask for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Offer as an appetizer with toothpicks at parties or spoon over steamed rice for a simple main course: versatility makes this recipe a winner at any table.
Ingredient Substitutions
Cherry preserves can be swapped with grape jelly for a different twist: you can use homemade meatballs instead of frozen for a made-from-scratch feel.
Allergen Tips
Check meatball and barbecue sauce packaging for common allergens like wheat, egg, soy, and milk: always verify ingredient labels if serving guests with sensitivities.
Save 
Save With just a handful of pantry ingredients, these meatballs are ready to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. Serve hot and watch them vanish in no time!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade meatballs work well. Use about 2 pounds of cooked meatballs and follow the same slow cooking method for best results.
- → Is there a substitute for cherry preserves?
You can replace cherry preserves with grape jelly to maintain sweetness and a similar texture in the sauce.
- → How long should I cook the meatballs?
Cook on low heat in the slow cooker for 3 hours until meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thickened.
- → Can I make the sauce spicier?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce gives a nice heat kick without overpowering the sweet and tangy flavors.
- → What allergens should I be aware of?
Check labels on meatballs and barbecue sauce as they may contain wheat, soy, egg, or milk depending on the brand.
- → What is the best way to serve these meatballs?
They work well as party appetizers with toothpicks or served over rice for a heartier meal option.