These Crockpot Meatballs are super easy to make! Just mix your meat with spices, shape them into balls, and let them cook slowly in tasty BBQ sauce until they’re nice and juicy.
The best part? Your home will smell amazing! I love serving these for a quick dinner or at parties. Trust me, they’re a total crowd-pleaser and disappear fast! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for leaner options, go for ground turkey or chicken instead. They work well too!
Breadcrumbs: You can use regular breadcrumbs or swap in panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs are great alternatives.
Onion and garlic: Fresh is best for flavor! However, if you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute. Just reduce the amount slightly – about 1 teaspoon of each should work.
Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a personal touch! If you need a lower-sugar option, look for brands that offer reduced sugar varieties.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy meatballs is not overmixing and careful cooking. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect texture:
- Mix the ingredients until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- For juicy meatballs, don’t skip the egg and milk; they add moisture!
- Browning the meatballs beforehand adds depth to the flavor but isn’t essential; feel free to skip if you’re short on time.
- Cook them on a low heat setting for a longer time. This allows them to simmer gently in the BBQ sauce and absorb all those flavors.
Following these tips will help you create meatballs that are consistently tender and packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Crockpot Meatballs With BBQ Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 20 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of around 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high in your crockpot. Perfect for a busy day, just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Mix gently until everything is nicely blended together, but be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or a plate as you go. This will help keep them organized before cooking.
3. Optional Browning:
If you have the time and want extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs for 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the meatballs.
4. Place in the Crockpot:
Transfer the meatballs into the crockpot, ensuring they fit comfortably. This will let them cook evenly.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated. This will infuse them with that sweet and tangy flavor as they cook.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook the meatballs on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. They are done when they are cooked through and tender.
7. Stir and Serve:
Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs in the sauce to coat them evenly. Serve them hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. These meatballs are perfect with rice, mashed potatoes, or served on slider buns!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Crockpot Meatballs smothered in rich, tangy BBQ sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs in This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen meatballs, you can add them directly to the crockpot without thawing. Just increase the cooking time to about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to ensure they are heated through completely.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just let them cool completely, then transfer to freezer-friendly bags or containers. They will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Can I Make These Meatballs Spicier?
Absolutely! For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or even a few dashes of hot sauce into the meat mixture. Adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! They’re great served over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. You can also make sliders by placing them in small buns and topping with extra sauce for a fun appetizer or meal!
