Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for appetizers, party snacks, or a main dish served over rice, these meatballs are cooked slowly in a flavorful honey garlic sauce that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients List

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)

Timing

Preparing Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 4-6 hours of cooking time on low or 2-3 hours on high.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil (if using). If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth and then add it to the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

1. Add to Crockpot: Place the meatballs in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Once cooked, stir the meatballs gently in the sauce before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice, noodles, or on their own as an appetizer.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Protein	20g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	12g

Tips for Customization

• Meat Variations: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavors and textures.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or make meatballs from lentils or chickpeas.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion

Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook them in the crockpot when ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I cook these meatballs in the oven?

Yes! You can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then toss them in the honey garlic sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes to combine flavors.