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Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe combines tender frozen meatballs with a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and Sweet Baby Ray's Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce. Perfect as a quick appetizer or party snack, the meatballs cook under pressure to lock in flavors and then simmer to thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.


Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 3 lbs frozen meatballs

Liquid and Sauce

  • 1 cup water
  • 18 oz Sweet Baby Ray's Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce
  • 18 oz grape jelly


Instructions

  1. Add Water: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot to provide the necessary liquid for pressure cooking, ensuring the meatballs cook evenly and prevent burning.
  2. Add Meatballs: Place the 3 pounds of frozen meatballs directly into the Instant Pot, distributing them evenly over the water.
  3. Pour Sauces: Pour 18 ounces each of Sweet Baby Ray's Hickory & Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce and grape jelly over the meatballs, combining sweet and smoky flavors.
  4. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensure the steam release handle is set to sealing, and set the pressure cooker to High Pressure for 6 minutes to cook the meatballs through.
  5. Quick Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully turn the steam release handle to venting to perform a quick pressure release, letting the steam escape safely.
  6. Stir Meatballs: Open the lid and stir the meatballs well to evenly coat them with the sauce that has formed.
  7. Simmer to Thicken: Set the Instant Pot function to Sauté on Normal heat and let the meatballs simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken the sauce to a glossy consistency.
  8. Cool Before Serving: After the Instant Pot automatically switches off, allow the meatballs to rest and cool for 5-10 minutes to enhance flavor and handle safely.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the meatballs to a serving dish and enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or party favorite.

Notes

  • Using frozen meatballs means no thawing time, making this a quick and convenient recipe.
  • Simmering after pressure cooking is key to achieving a thicker, more flavorful sauce.
  • Adjust the simmering time if you prefer a thinner or thicker sauce consistency.
  • Serve with toothpicks for easy party eating or alongside rice for a full meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.