Crock Pot BBQ Meatballs are super easy to make and packed with flavor! Tender meatballs swim in a delicious barbecue sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
These meatballs are perfect for game day or any casual gathering. Just throw everything into the pot and let it work its magic. You might want to keep some extra napkins handy—things can get messy! 😄
I love serving them on slider buns for a tasty mini-sandwich. They’re wholesome and satisfying, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. You won’t believe how simple they are to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but ground turkey is a lighter option. If you want to switch things up, try ground pork or chicken for a different taste!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but try panko for extra crunch. You can also substitute crushed crackers or oats if you’re gluten-free.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice, salty flavor. For a vegan alternative, use nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute too.
Onion: Chopped onions enhance the mix. If you’re not a fan, finely chopped bell peppers or shallots can offer a milder taste.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for a personal twist. If you like some heat, try spicy BBQ sauce or add some hot sauce to your mix!
How Do I Make the Perfect Meatballs?
Making meatballs can seem tricky, but a few tips will ensure you get it right! First, don’t over-mix the ingredients. This keeps them tender and fluffy.
- Use your hands to combine the mixture gently until just blended.
- When shaping, keep the meatballs uniform in size (about 1 to 1.5 inches) so they cook evenly.
- Let them cook in the sauce for the flavors to meld together. Don’t skip this step!
How to Make Crock Pot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will cook in the Crock Pot for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t worry if it gets a bit messy; that’s part of the fun!
2. Shaping the Meatballs:
Once the mixture is well mixed, take small portions and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can make them as big or small as you like, but keeping them uniform helps with even cooking.
3. Placing Meatballs in the Crock Pot:
Carefully place the meatballs into your Crock Pot in a single layer. It’s okay if they touch; just try to spread them out a bit for better cooking.
4. Adding the BBQ Sauce:
Now it’s time to pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs. Make sure they are all well coated in that tasty sauce! You can use a spoon to gently stir them around if you want to ensure an even coating.
5. Cooking the Meatballs:
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook. If you are cooking on low, let them cook for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high and cook for 2 to 3 hours. Either way, you’ll want them cooked through and tender.
6. Serving Your Meatballs:
Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the lid and serve the meatballs warm. They’re great on toothpicks for easy snacking or served on rolls for a delicious sandwich. Enjoy your flavorful BBQ meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure not to overmix the turkey when preparing the meatball mixture, as it can become dry. You might also consider adding a touch more milk or a bit of oil for moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even some cornmeal. Just adjust the amount based on the consistency – you want it to hold together well. If using oats, quick oats work best for this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container after they’ve cooled completely, and they’ll last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time! Prepare and form them, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook them and store in the fridge or freeze them for later. Just reheat in the sauce before serving!
