Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are the ultimate fuss-free comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need an effortless weeknight dinner, this sweet and savory dish delivers every time. With a sticky glaze made from pantry staples like honey, soy sauce, and ketchup, these meatballs pack a punch of flavor while requiring minimal prep. Just add everything to your slow cooker and let it take care of the rest. These meatballs are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a must-try recipe for busy families and meal preppers.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly flavorful, thanks to a rich honey garlic sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. The convenience of using frozen meatballs cuts down on prep time, while the slow cooker infuses every bite with deep, comforting flavors. They can serve as a hearty appetizer or a satisfying main course when paired with rice or noodles. Plus, the recipe is easy to tweak to match your taste, whether you prefer it spicy, extra garlicky, or with an herby garnish.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup pure honey
• 1/2 cup ketchup (preferably organic)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 28 oz. package of fully cooked frozen meatballs (choose from beef, turkey, or plant-based)
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and stir to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Cover and cook on the low setting for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally so the meatballs stay evenly coated and soak up the flavorful sauce.
5. Once hot and glazed, season with salt and pepper if needed.
6. For added flair, sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or cilantro before serving.
7. Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, over steamed rice, or in a toasted sandwich roll.

Helpful Tips

• Stir the meatballs every so often to keep them coated evenly and prevent any from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
• If your slow cooker runs hot, check the meatballs at the 3-hour mark to prevent overcooking.
• Preheat your slow cooker for faster cooking time.
• Use a liner in your slow cooker for easy cleanup.

Substitutions And Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Extra Garlic Flavor: Use garlic salt or roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
• Sweeter Sauce: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet profile.
• Plant-Based Option: Use vegan meatballs and check that your honey substitute (like agave) is plant-friendly.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce and ketchup to control salt levels.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Rewarm in the microwave or on the stovetop until fully heated. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugars: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fiber: 1g

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over jasmine or basmati rice for a hearty dinner.
• Use as a filling in hoagie rolls topped with melted provolone.
• Add to a party platter with toothpicks as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.

Common Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Can I use homemade meatballs? Absolutely! Just ensure they are thoroughly cooked before placing them in the slow cooker.

Do I need to thaw the meatballs first? Not at all—you can use them straight from the freezer.

Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, if you’re short on time, cook on high for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring once or twice.

What’s the best type of meatballs to use? Beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based varieties all work beautifully in this dish.

Can I double the sauce? Definitely! If you love extra saucy meatballs or plan to serve them over rice, doubling the sauce is a great option.

Conclusion

Thank you so much for stopping by to check out this delicious Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs recipe. I truly love how this dish combines simplicity with big flavor, making it a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a no-fuss dinner, this recipe won’t let you down. I hope it brings warmth and satisfaction to your table as it has to mine. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this flavorful journey with me!

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

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• Author: Lisa
• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or party appetizers!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar

• 1/3 cup pure honey

• 1/2 cup ketchup (preferably organic)

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 28 oz. package fully cooked frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)

• Optional: sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or cilantro

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic.

2. Add frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.

3. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir until evenly coated.

4. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Once hot, season with salt and pepper.

6. Garnish with sesame seeds or herbs if desired.

7. Serve as an appetizer or main dish.

Notes

• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

• For more sauce, double the ingredients.

• Add sriracha for a spicy twist.

• Garlic salt can enhance flavor.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approx. 5 meatballs
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 14g