Quick & Easy 3-Ingredient Vegan Meatballs (Perfect Appetizer!)

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Easy 3-Ingredient Vegan & Gluten-Free Appetizer Meatballs – A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite!

Overhead view of vegan appetizer meatballs coated in a sticky sweet chili and grape jelly glaze, served on a blue plate with toothpicks for easy party snacking.

Growing up, meatballs were always a staple at family gatherings. From holiday parties to game-day celebrations, they were the go-to appetizer that disappeared in minutes. Now, with this plant-based, gluten-free version, you can enjoy that same classic taste with just three simple ingredients! Plus, these meatballs can be made in a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or on the stovetop, making them a perfect no-fuss recipe for any occasion.

So if you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing appetizer, these vegan and gluten-free meatballs will not disappoint. Let’s get cooking!

Close-up of juicy vegan meatballs glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce, arranged on a plate with toothpicks for a simple and crowd-pleasing plant-based appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Vegan & Gluten-Free 3-Ingredient Meatballs are about to become your go-to appetizer for every gathering! Here’s why:

✔ Super Easy to Make – With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these meatballs in no time. No complicated prep or long ingredient lists required!

✔ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Whether you’re serving vegans, gluten-free guests, or meat lovers, these savory, hearty meatballs will be a hit at any party or event.

✔ Versatile Cooking Options – Make them in a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or on the stovetop—whatever works best for you!

✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering, game-day snack, or family dinner, these meatballs are a delicious and satisfying appetizer that fits any event.

✔ Gluten-Free & Plant-Based – A better-for-you alternative to traditional meatballs that everyone can enjoy, without sacrificing flavor or texture.

These tender, flavorful, and oh-so-easy meatballs are guaranteed to disappear fast. Try them for your next get-together and watch them become an instant favorite!

Top Tip

For an extra touch, garnish with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds before serving. These sticky-sweet vegan meatballs pair perfectly with a side of rice, noodles, or fresh veggie sticks if you’re turning them into a meal!

Ingredients Needed for Vegan & Gluten-Free Appetizer Meatballs

With just three simple ingredients, these sweet and savory vegan meatballs come together effortlessly for the perfect party appetizer!

Vegan Meatballs – I’ve had great results using both Impossible and Beyond Meatballs—both are delicious options. Keep them frozen until ready to use for the best texture.
Grape Jelly or Jam – Adds a subtle sweetness and glossy coating that balances out the savory flavors.
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce – Gives the sauce a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and a little heat. You can substitute traditional chili sauce, but many brands contain high fructose corn syrup, so we opt for Sweet Thai Chili Sauce instead.

That’s it! These three simple ingredients create an irresistible, sticky-sweet, and savory glaze that makes these meatballs an instant hit at any gathering. Let’s get cooking!

vegan meatballs, Thai sweet chili sauce, and grape jam to make vegan appetizer meatballs.

How to Make Vegan & Gluten-Free Appetizer Meatballs

This truly is the easiest appetizer recipe you’ll ever make! With just three ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of sweet, tangy, and savory meatballs ready to serve in no time. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- ½ bottle of grape jelly
- 1 bottle of sweet Thai chili sauce
Stir until fully combined and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Slow Cooker Method:
- Place frozen vegan meatballs into the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Close the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Pressure Cooker Method:(Using slow cook mode)
- Set the pressure cooker to slow cook mode.
- Place frozen meatballs inside and pour the sauce over the top.
- Close the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Stovetop Method:
- In a large sauté pan, cook the frozen meatballs over medium heat until heated through.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, stir to coat, and let simmer for a few minutes before serving.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer to a serving dish or leave in the slow cooker to keep warm.
Serve the meatballs warm with toothpicks for an easy, grab-and-go appetizer that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or game day spreads.

More delicious plant-based appetizer recipes:

FAQ

Can I use a different jam instead of grape jelly?

Yes! Grape jelly adds a classic sweet flavor, but you can easily swap it with apricot, raspberry, or even cranberry sauce for a twist.

Is there a way to make them spicier?

Yes—add a dash of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

Are all vegan meatballs gluten-free?

Not always. Be sure to check the packaging—some vegan meatballs contain wheat. Look for certified gluten-free options if needed.