Best Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs: Easy, Sweet & Savory Family Favorite! 🍯🥢

Table of Contents: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

There’s something magical about tossing a few ingredients into a slow cooker and coming back hours later to a dish that smells and tastes like it’s been crafted by a gourmet chef. These SLOW COOKER HONEY GARLIC MEATBALLS are no exception—a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have your family and guests begging for the recipe. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family dinner, or just looking for an effortless appetizer, these meatballs are your secret weapon.

Introduction: Why You’ll Love SLOW COOKER HONEY GARLIC MEATBALLS

This recipe is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich, sticky glaze of honey, garlic, and soy sauce. The best part? It’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker, meaning you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. These CROCK POT PARTY MEATBALLS are ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing dish without the fuss.

The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor profile that’s irresistible. Plus, using frozen meatballs cuts down on prep time, making this recipe a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy schedule. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, these SWEET AND SAVORY MEATBALLS are sure to be a hit.

Alternate Names & Variations

These meatballs are versatile and go by many names depending on the occasion or slight tweaks to the recipe. Here are some alternate names you might encounter:

– Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs
– Easy Appetizer Meatballs
– Sweet and Tangy Meatballs

For a twist, consider using barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce instead of honey garlic for a different flavor profile. You can also swap frozen meatballs for homemade ones if you’re feeling extra ambitious.

Ingredients for SLOW COOKER HONEY GARLIC MEATBALLS

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible CROCK POT PARTY MEATBALLS:

1/2 cup honey (for that perfect sweetness)
1/4 cup ketchup (adds a tangy depth)
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari (for savory umami flavor)
4 cloves garlic, chopped (fresh garlic for the best aroma)
1 (24- to 28-ounce) frozen meatballs (classic beef, chicken, or turkey work well)

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and chopped garlic until well combined.

2. Add Meatballs: Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. No need to thaw them—this recipe works perfectly with frozen meatballs straight out of the bag.

3. Pour Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

4. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4–6 hours, or on high for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

5. Serve: Once the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is thick and glossy, transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Chef Tip: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Recipe Card Block

This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and cooks in your slow cooker for 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high, making it an incredibly easy appetizer or main dish. It yields approximately 4–6 servings, each with around 300 calories.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved with just a few ingredients. The slow cooker ensures the meatballs stay tender and juicy, while the honey garlic sauce caramelizes beautifully. Here’s why it’s a standout:

Perfect for Busy Days: With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is ideal for hectic schedules.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks, over rice for a main dish, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory combo makes these meatballs a hit with kids and adults alike.

Expert Tip: Double the sauce recipe if you prefer extra glaze for dipping or serving.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

People Also Ask: SLOW COOKER HONEY GARLIC MEATBALLS

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Can I Use Frozen Meatballs in the Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Frozen meatballs work perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand—just toss them into the slow cooker with the sauce, and they’ll cook beautifully.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Frozen Meatballs in a Crock Pot?

Frozen meatballs typically take 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high in a crock pot. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model.

What Can I Serve With Honey Garlic Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. They also make a fantastic appetizer when served with toothpicks for easy handling.

Can I Make These Meatballs With a Different Kind of Sauce?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a spicy Sriracha glaze for a different twist.

Conclusion

These SLOW COOKER HONEY GARlic with their perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, are guaranteed to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a quick dinner solution, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results with us!

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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Sweet, sticky, and savory meatballs slow-cooked in a honey garlic glaze—perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy dinner served over rice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs frozen fully-cooked meatballs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Place meatballs in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until heated through.
  5. For thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving if desired.

Notes

Great as an appetizer or main dish. Serve over rice, noodles, or toothpick-style at gatherings!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5–6 meatballs
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: slow cooker meatballs, honey garlic, party appetizer, crockpot recipe