These Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are not only delicious, but they also make for a fantastic dish that suits various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for an easy meal prep solution, these meatballs deliver on flavor and convenience. The combination of sweet honey and robust garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly coats the tender Angus beef meatballs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply combine the sauce ingredients, add the meatballs to your slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and savory mix is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these meatballs as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a slow cooker means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Using the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving utensils
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is essential for simmering the meatballs slowly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps you combine ingredients easily without spills or mess.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your sauce.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 40 oz Angus beef meatballs, frozen
For the Sauce
- 6 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2/3 cup honey
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 6 Tbsp brown sugar
2. 2/3 cup honey
3. 1 cup ketchup
4. 1/4 cup soy sauce
5. 6 garlic cloves, minced
Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 2: Add Meatballs to Slow Cooker
Place the frozen Angus beef meatballs in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Coat Meatballs with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs. Ensure they are evenly coated for full flavor absorption.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker:
– Set on low for 4-6 hours
– Or high for 2-3 hours
Cook until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot! Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your delightful Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs at any gathering!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
These Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a weeknight meal, here are some creative serving suggestions.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Pair with a dipping sauce like sweet chili for extra flavor.
Over Rice
- Pour the meatballs and sauce over steamed rice for a satisfying main dish.
- Jasmine or basmati rice complements their sweet and savory profile well.
In Sliders
- Place the meatballs in mini buns to create delicious sliders.
- Add some crunchy coleslaw for texture and freshness.
With Noodles
- Toss the meatballs with cooked noodles for a hearty meal.
- Use spaghetti or rice noodles to soak up the honey garlic sauce.
Garnished with Greenery
- Top with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a pop of color.
- Sesame seeds add a nice crunch and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
To ensure your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality meatballs: Opt for Angus beef meatballs for rich flavor and juicy texture.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly or balance it with more soy sauce.
- Add vegetables: Consider adding sliced bell peppers or carrots in the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cook low and slow: For optimal tenderness, stick to low heat cooking if time allows.
- Thicken the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to let it reduce.
- Serve hot: Enjoy these meatballs warm to fully appreciate their sticky, sweet goodness.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a burst of color and nutrients that balance the meal’s richness.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful option that complements the meatballs beautifully; add vegetables for extra crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover honey garlic sauce on your plate.
- Coleslaw: Offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the sticky meatballs; use a tangy dressing.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy choice that adds fiber while providing a nutty flavor profile.
- Crispy Potatoes: Roasted or fried potatoes will provide a comforting, hearty side that pairs well with any main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs can be simple, but some common errors can affect your results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the sauce prep: Many people assume they can just toss ingredients in the slow cooker without mixing. Always blend the sauce ingredients in a bowl first for even flavor distribution.
- Using thawed meatballs: Frozen meatballs help maintain moisture and cook evenly. Using thawed meatballs can lead to overcooked or dry results.
- Ignoring cook times: Cooking for too long on high heat can lead to mushy meatballs. Stick to recommended times for the best texture.
- Not checking seasoning: Before serving, always taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. This ensures a well-balanced flavor.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook in two batches instead of overcrowding. This allows for proper cooking and flavor infusion.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
- Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add meatballs with a splash of water or sauce. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs?
Serve these meatballs hot as an appetizer or over rice as a main course. They pair well with sesame seeds and green onions for garnishing.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! While Angus beef is delicious, you can substitute with turkey or chicken meatballs if preferred.
How do I customize the flavor of my Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs?
You can add spices like crushed red pepper for heat or switch up the honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
What side dishes go well with these meatballs?
Consider serving them alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or noodles. A fresh salad also complements this dish nicely.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving!
Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are sure to impress anyone at your next gathering. Their sweet and savory combination makes them perfect for any occasion—whether as an appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or sauces to make them uniquely yours!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. With their sweet and savory flavor profile, these tender Angus beef meatballs simmer in a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce that’s simple to make. Ideal for parties, family dinners, or meal prep, just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks, over rice for a hearty meal, or in sliders for a delicious twist. Easy cleanup and meal prep make this dish even more appealing!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 40 oz frozen Angus beef meatballs
- 6 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2/3 cup honey
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 6 minced garlic cloves
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until well blended.
- Place frozen Angus beef meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until heated through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot; garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
