These Crockpot Meatballs with BBQ Sauce are super easy and fun! Just toss meatballs in a tasty BBQ sauce and let them cook slowly. Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner.
Honestly, I love how simple this dish is—set it and forget it! Plus, they’re a hit every time. Serve them with toothpicks, and watch everyone go back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, pork, turkey, or chicken meatballs. If you want to make them from scratch, just combine ground meat with breadcrumbs, an egg, and seasonings!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! There are many varieties, from sweet to spicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can make your own sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Grape Jelly or Cranberry Sauce: This ingredient adds sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, try honey or maple syrup instead, or skip it altogether!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds extra flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce or liquid aminos can be good substitutes. Or simply leave it out; the dish will still taste great!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Meatballs in a Crockpot?
Cooking meatballs in a crockpot is simple, but a few tips can help you get the best results. First, ensure the meatballs are in a single layer for even cooking. If they’re piled on top of each other, some won’t heat through properly.
- Mix your sauce ingredients in a bowl before pouring them over the meatballs.
- Keep the lid on during cooking to avoid losing moisture and heat.
- Check for doneness close to the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
This will help you achieve delicious, tender meatballs covered in flavorful BBQ sauce! Enjoy your meal!
Crockpot Meatballs With BBQ Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, pork, or a mix)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly or cranberry sauce (optional, for added sweetness and glaze)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Once your ingredients are in the crockpot, you’ll need to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on how quickly you need them. So, all in all, just let your crockpot do the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in the crockpot. Spread them out in an even layer so they cook uniformly.
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, add the barbecue sauce, grape jelly (or cranberry sauce), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give everything a good stir until it’s well combined.
3. Combine the Sauce and Meatballs:
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the meatballs. Make sure all the meatballs are nicely coated with the sauce!
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The meatballs should be heated all the way through, and the sauce will thicken during cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, gently stir the meatballs to ensure they’re evenly coated with the BBQ sauce. Transfer them to a serving bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or as a comforting main dish alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or bread.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Crockpot Meatballs with rich BBQ sauce!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, as they will cook faster than frozen ones.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the barbecue sauce and any other sauces used are labeled gluten-free. You can also make your own sauce to control the ingredients completely.
What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with various sides. Consider serving them with rice, mashed potatoes, or bread rolls to soak up the BBQ sauce. For a lighter option, a fresh salad or roasted vegetables works great too!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of extra BBQ sauce if needed to keep them moist.
