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Traeger Smoked Grape Jelly Meatballs

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These Traeger Smoked Grape Jelly Meatballs take a classic party favorite to the next level with a smoky twist. Juicy homemade or frozen meatballs are slow-smoked, then coated in a rich, tangy-sweet glaze made with grape jelly and chili sauce. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs (Homemade Option):

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ¾ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder

OR Use 2 lbs frozen meatballs

For the Grape Jelly Sauce:

  • 12 oz grape jelly
  • 12 oz chili sauce (such as Heinz)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Smoker:

  • Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and load it with your choice of wood pellets (hickory, cherry, or apple work best).

2. Prepare the Meatballs:

If using frozen meatballs: Skip to step 3.
If making homemade meatballs:

  • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.

3. Smoke the Meatballs:

  • Place the meatballs directly on the grill grates. Smoke for 60 minutes if using homemade, or 90 minutes if using frozen, until they develop a light crust and absorb the smoky flavor.

4. Prepare the Grape Jelly Glaze:

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together grape jelly, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  • Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth.

5. Coat & Finish Cooking:

  • Increase the Traeger temperature to 300°F.
  • Transfer the meatballs to a grill-safe pan or cast-iron skillet. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and toss to coat.
  • Smoke for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are fully glazed.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.

Notes

  • Want it spicier? Add 1 tbsp of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the glaze.
  • Make it ahead: Meatballs can be smoked in advance and reheated in the sauce before serving.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve on toothpicks for appetizers, over rice for a meal, or in sliders for a fun twist!

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/traeger-smoked-grape-jelly-meatballs/