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 make this a go-to recipe for gatherings and busy weeknights.
I discovered this viral cherry BBQ meatball recipe when I needed a last-minute appetizer for a family party, and it quickly became a crowd favorite with zero leftovers every time.
Ingredients
- Meatballs: 32 oz (900 g) frozen fully cooked meatballs
- Barbecue sauce: 1 cup (250 ml), your favorite brand
- Cherry preserves or cherry jam: 1 cup (290 g)
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp (15 g)
- Garlic powder: 1/4 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/4 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
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.
- Add Meatballs:
- Place frozen meatballs in the bowl of a slow cooker.
- Coat Meatballs:
- Pour the cherry BBQ sauce mixture over meatballs, stirring gently to coat all evenly.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, until meatballs are heated through and sauce thickens. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Save 
Save Every time I make these meatballs, our family gathers around the slow cooker, sneaking tastes before dinner is even served. It has become our holiday game-night staple.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (4-quart or larger), mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat if meatballs include breadcrumbs; may contain soy, egg, or milk—always verify labels for sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains 340 calories, 13 g total fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 15 g protein.
Save 
Save Finish with chopped parsley or serve over rice for a satisfying dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade meatballs can be substituted as long as they are cooked before adding to the slow cooker, maintaining about 2 lbs (900 g) for best results.
- → What can I use instead of cherry preserves?
Grape jelly is a great alternative that provides a similarly sweet and smooth texture for the sauce.
- → How do I make the sauce spicier?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture will add a spicy kick while keeping the overall flavor balanced.
- → Is it necessary to stir during cooking?
Stirring once or twice during the three-hour slow cooking ensures even sauce distribution and prevents sticking.
- → What are good serving suggestions for these meatballs?
Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks or over rice for a simple main course. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a bright note.