Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs: The Ultimate Meatball Recipe

Introduction to Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Savor the delicious combination of sweet and savory with these Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs. Perfect for busy days, these meatballs are not only easy to make, but they also deliver a burst of flavor that will please everyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a weeknight dinner solution, these meatballs are sure to impress.

A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for special occasions. One of our favorite dishes was meatballs cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce. As I got older, I wanted to recreate that tradition in my own home. After experimenting with various recipes, I discovered the magic of honey garlic sauce paired with tender meatballs cooked in a slow cooker. This dish quickly became a staple at my gatherings, and I’m excited to share it with you!

What Makes This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the rich flavors that develop during slow cooking. The combination of brown sugar, honey, ketchup, and garlic creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the meatballs. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy cooks. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels like a labor of love without the stress.

The Full Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz. fully cooked, frozen meatballs

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Stir until well mixed. Tip: Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
2. Add 28 oz. of frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture. Toss gently until the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce. Tip: Using frozen meatballs saves time, but ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
3. Transfer the coated meatballs to your slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: Stirring allows the meatballs to soak in the sauce better.
4. Once cooked, taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Tip: Adjust seasoning to your preference for a balanced flavor.
5. For an added touch, optionally garnish with sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or cilantro before serving. Tip: Fresh herbs enhance the presentation and flavor!
6. Enjoy the meatballs as an appetizer, main dish over rice, or in a sandwich. Tip: These meatballs also make a great filling for sliders!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

These honey garlic meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them as appetizers at your next gathering with toothpicks for easy eating. For a heartier meal, serve over steamed rice or quinoa. They also make a tasty filling for sandwiches or sliders. If you want to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the slow cooker for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh meatballs may require less time to cook through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also complement various dipping sauces if served as appetizers.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Savor the sweet and savory flavors of these honey garlic meatballs, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker Use a standard slow cooker for best results.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 third cup honey
• 1 half cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces fully cooked, frozen meatballs

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
• Add frozen meatballs to the sauce mixture and toss until evenly coated.
• Transfer meatballs to slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, parsley, or cilantro if desired before serving.
• Serve as an appetizer, over rice, or in a sandwich.

Notes

For a twist, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Ensure the meatballs are fully heated through before serving to ensure they are piping hot.

Keyword Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe