Asian Crockpot Meatballs

Asian Crockpot Meatballs are juicy, tender meatballs slow-cooked in a flavorful, sticky Asian-inspired sauce. Made with ground meat, ginger, garlic, and a sweet and savory glaze, these meatballs are perfect for appetizers, game day, or a delicious main dish served over rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with minimal prep and hands-off cooking
• Perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners
• Sweet, savory, and slightly tangy sauce with an Asian twist
• Great for meal prep and reheats well
• Versatile: serve as an appetizer or main dish

Ingredients

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

For the Meatballs:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef or ground pork (or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Asian Sauce:

• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Form into 1-inch meatballs (about 24-30 meatballs).
2. Sear the Meatballs (Optional):
   • For extra flavor and to help them hold their shape, sear the meatballs in a skillet with a bit of oil until browned on all sides. This step is optional but recommended.
3. Prepare the Asian Sauce:
   • In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
   • Add the meatballs to the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top and gently stir to coat.
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Thicken the Sauce:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce is glossy and coats the meatballs well.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro if desired. Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Pineapple Meatballs: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen meatballs in this recipe?

Yes, use pre-cooked frozen meatballs and adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the meatballs. Searing them before adding to the slow cooker also helps them hold their shape.

3. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Add to the crockpot and cook as directed.

4. What sides go well with Asian Crockpot Meatballs?

Serve with steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh Asian salad.

5. Can I double the recipe?

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

6. Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer the meatballs and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through and the sauce is thickened.

7. What other sauces can I use for these meatballs?

Try teriyaki sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or a Korean BBQ sauce for different flavors.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, add more cornstarch mixed with water and continue cooking until it reaches the desired consistency.

9. Can I make the sauce less sweet?

Yes, reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar to taste.

10. Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the meatballs?

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

Conclusion

Asian Crockpot Meatballs are a flavorful and easy dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. With minimal prep and the convenience of slow cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy days, parties, or casual dinners. Whether served as an appetizer or over rice for a main meal, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Print