Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for appetizers, game day, or a delicious main dish served over rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make using the slow cooker
• Perfect blend of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors
• Great for parties, potlucks, or as a main dish
• Minimal prep and cleanup required
• Can be made with homemade or frozen meatballs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, chicken, or turkey) or homemade meatballs

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, vinegar, and grated ginger until well combined.
2. Add Meatballs to Slow Cooker:
   • Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
   • Pour the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs, stirring to coat them evenly.
3. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry.
   • Continue cooking on high until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
   • Serve hot as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Meatballs: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Teriyaki Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Cranberry Honey Garlic Meatballs: Mix 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce into the sauce for a sweet holiday twist.
• Pineapple Meatballs: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor boost.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based or meatless meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the slow cooker, microwave, or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, simply brown homemade meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure they hold their shape.

2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the meatballs are also gluten-free.

3. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, bake the meatballs in a baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. What should I serve with honey garlic meatballs?

Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a fresh vegetable side dish.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra meatballs and sauce.

6. Can I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

Yes, reduce the sauce on the stovetop or use arrowroot powder as an alternative thickener.

7. Can I use turkey or chicken meatballs?

Yes, chicken or turkey meatballs work perfectly in this recipe.

8. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the meatballs?

Yes, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can be added for a complete meal.

9. How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking in the slow cooker?

Lightly grease the slow cooker with nonstick spray or a bit of oil before adding the meatballs.

10. Can I use pre-cooked meatballs?

Yes, frozen or refrigerated pre-cooked meatballs work well and save time.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors with a hint of garlic. These tender meatballs, simmered in a flavorful sauce, are ideal for parties, game days, or an easy weeknight dinner. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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