Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Flavorful Delight

by
For these tasty meatballs, you'll need: - 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, whole wheat adds flavor - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 egg, lightly beaten - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste These main ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. The ground meat serves as the base, while breadcrumbs help bind it. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor. Fresh parsley gives a fresh touch, and garlic packs a punch. For the sweet and savory sauce, gather: - 1 cup honey, raw adds depth - 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger This sauce is the star of the dish. Honey brings sweetness, while soy sauce adds a salty note. Apple cider vinegar gives a slight tang, and ground ginger adds warmth and spice. Mixing these ingredients creates a sticky glaze that coats the meatballs perfectly. To make your dish pop, consider these garnishes: - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds - 2 green onions, thinly sliced These garnishes enhance the look and flavor of your meal. Sesame seeds add crunch, while green onions provide freshness. They make your dish appealing and flavorful, perfect for serving. Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for texture and flavor. Next, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Then, toss in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped. Don't forget to add 2 minced garlic cloves. This will give your meatballs a great taste. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything blends well. After mixing, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a small amount of the mixture and form it into a ball, about 1 inch wide. Place each meatball on a baking sheet or platter. This keeps them organized and prevents sticking. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in your dish. Now for the tasty sauce! In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Mix until it is smooth and well blended. This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that makes the meatballs shine. Carefully transfer the formed meatballs into the slow cooker. Once all meatballs are in, pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Make sure each meatball gets coated in that delicious sauce. Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for around 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and tender. After cooking, gently stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce before serving. To get the best meatball texture, use ground beef or turkey. I like to mix in breadcrumbs for added fluffiness. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add great flavor too. Always add a beaten egg to bind the meatball. This helps them hold their shape while cooking. When mixing, avoid overworking the meat. This keeps the meatballs tender. Form each meatball into a ball about 1 inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. When it’s time to serve, I love pairing these meatballs with rice or noodles. The honey garlic sauce adds a sweet touch. For a bright look, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Thinly sliced green onions also add crunch and color. You can serve them as a main dish or as appetizers. They work well for parties too! Consider adding a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. You can easily prepare these meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the balls a day before. Place them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Cooking them in the slow cooker is perfect for meal prep. Let them cook while you do other tasks. This saves time and lets you enjoy a tasty meal later on. {{image_4}} You can use different ground meats for these meatballs. Ground turkey gives a lighter taste. Ground pork adds a nice richness. If you want beef, choose lean ground beef. Each meat brings its own flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed. For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Crushed rice crackers work well. You can also use ground oats or almond flour. Check your soy sauce too; use a gluten-free type. These changes keep the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities. You can boost flavors in several fun ways. Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the meat mix. Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes. For a sweet twist, mix in pineapple chunks. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also brighten the dish. These options let you create your own unique version of honey garlic meatballs. After your meal, let the meatballs cool down. Transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the meatballs for added flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, there are a few good ways to heat them. You can use the microwave, which is quick and easy. Place the meatballs in a bowl, cover them, and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating. For the best flavor, try reheating them on the stove. Place meatballs in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce. Heat on low, stirring gently, until warm. This keeps them juicy and tasty. If you want to freeze the meatballs, you can do this easily. Place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date and type of meatballs. They will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for a delicious meal. Yes, you can use a different sauce. Try teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a fun twist. Just make sure the sauce has a nice balance of sweet and savory. You want the flavor to shine through. For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to your choice. This will add depth and excitement to the dish. Cook the meatballs for about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. This slow cooking makes the meatballs tender and juicy. Check if they are cooked through by cutting one in half. You want them to be hot all the way inside. This ensures you get the best flavor and texture. Yes, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. After that, you can toss them in the honey garlic sauce. This method gives a nice crust while keeping them moist inside. Enjoy experimenting with both methods! You learned how to make tasty honey garlic meatballs. We covered key ingredients and their roles. Next, I shared a simple step-by-step guide. You also saw tips for perfect texture and meal prep. Variations help you customize your dish. Finally, I provided storage and reheating tips. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and make it your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to enjoy a tasty dinner with minimal effort? Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that will satisfy your whole family. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step, share tips, and offer fun variations. Let’s dive into this flavorful delight and make your next meal a hit!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Honey Garlic Meatballs

For these tasty meatballs, you’ll need:

– 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, whole wheat adds flavor

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1 egg, lightly beaten

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

These main ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. The ground meat serves as the base, while breadcrumbs help bind it. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor. Fresh parsley gives a fresh touch, and garlic packs a punch.

Pantry Staples for Sauce

For the sweet and savory sauce, gather:

– 1 cup honey, raw adds depth

– 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

This sauce is the star of the dish. Honey brings sweetness, while soy sauce adds a salty note. Apple cider vinegar gives a slight tang, and ground ginger adds warmth and spice. Mixing these ingredients creates a sticky glaze that coats the meatballs perfectly.

Optional Garnishes

To make your dish pop, consider these garnishes:

– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

– 2 green onions, thinly sliced

These garnishes enhance the look and flavor of your meal. Sesame seeds add crunch, while green onions provide freshness. They make your dish appealing and flavorful, perfect for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for texture and flavor. Next, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Then, toss in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped. Don’t forget to add 2 minced garlic cloves. This will give your meatballs a great taste. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything blends well.

Forming and Organizing Meatballs

After mixing, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a small amount of the mixture and form it into a ball, about 1 inch wide. Place each meatball on a baking sheet or platter. This keeps them organized and prevents sticking. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in your dish.

Making the Honey Garlic Sauce

Now for the tasty sauce! In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Mix until it is smooth and well blended. This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that makes the meatballs shine.

Cooking in the Slow Cooker

Carefully transfer the formed meatballs into the slow cooker. Once all meatballs are in, pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Make sure each meatball gets coated in that delicious sauce. Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for around 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and tender. After cooking, gently stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce before serving.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Meatball Texture

To get the best meatball texture, use ground beef or turkey. I like to mix in breadcrumbs for added fluffiness. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add great flavor too. Always add a beaten egg to bind the meatball. This helps them hold their shape while cooking. When mixing, avoid overworking the meat. This keeps the meatballs tender. Form each meatball into a ball about 1 inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Garlic Meatballs

When it’s time to serve, I love pairing these meatballs with rice or noodles. The honey garlic sauce adds a sweet touch. For a bright look, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Thinly sliced green onions also add crunch and color. You can serve them as a main dish or as appetizers. They work well for parties too! Consider adding a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.

Making Ahead and Prepping in Advance

You can easily prepare these meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the balls a day before. Place them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Cooking them in the slow cooker is perfect for meal prep. Let them cook while you do other tasks. This saves time and lets you enjoy a tasty meal later on.

Variations

Substituting Ground Meat Options

You can use different ground meats for these meatballs. Ground turkey gives a lighter taste. Ground pork adds a nice richness. If you want beef, choose lean ground beef. Each meat brings its own flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed.

Gluten-Free Adjustments

For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Crushed rice crackers work well. You can also use ground oats or almond flour. Check your soy sauce too; use a gluten-free type. These changes keep the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Flavor Enhancements and Additions

You can boost flavors in several fun ways. Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the meat mix. Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes. For a sweet twist, mix in pineapple chunks. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also brighten the dish. These options let you create your own unique version of honey garlic meatballs.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Meatballs

After your meal, let the meatballs cool down. Transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the meatballs for added flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Tips for Best Flavor

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, there are a few good ways to heat them. You can use the microwave, which is quick and easy. Place the meatballs in a bowl, cover them, and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating. For the best flavor, try reheating them on the stove. Place meatballs in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce. Heat on low, stirring gently, until warm. This keeps them juicy and tasty.

Freezing Honey Garlic Meatballs

If you want to freeze the meatballs, you can do this easily. Place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date and type of meatballs. They will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for a delicious meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes, you can use a different sauce. Try teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a fun twist. Just make sure the sauce has a nice balance of sweet and savory. You want the flavor to shine through. For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to your choice. This will add depth and excitement to the dish.

How long do I cook the meatballs in the slow cooker?

Cook the meatballs for about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. This slow cooking makes the meatballs tender and juicy. Check if they are cooked through by cutting one in half. You want them to be hot all the way inside. This ensures you get the best flavor and texture.

Can I make these meatballs in the oven instead?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. After that, you can toss them in the honey garlic sauce. This method gives a nice crust while keeping them moist inside. Enjoy experimenting with both methods!

You learned how to make tasty honey garlic meatballs. We covered key ingredients and their roles. Next, I shared a simple step-by-step guide. You also saw tips for perfect texture and meal prep. Variations help you customize your dish. Finally, I provided storage and reheating tips.

Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and make it your own!

For these tasty meatballs, you'll need: - 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, whole wheat adds flavor - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 egg, lightly beaten - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste These main ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. The ground meat serves as the base, while breadcrumbs help bind it. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor. Fresh parsley gives a fresh touch, and garlic packs a punch. For the sweet and savory sauce, gather: - 1 cup honey, raw adds depth - 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger This sauce is the star of the dish. Honey brings sweetness, while soy sauce adds a salty note. Apple cider vinegar gives a slight tang, and ground ginger adds warmth and spice. Mixing these ingredients creates a sticky glaze that coats the meatballs perfectly. To make your dish pop, consider these garnishes: - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds - 2 green onions, thinly sliced These garnishes enhance the look and flavor of your meal. Sesame seeds add crunch, while green onions provide freshness. They make your dish appealing and flavorful, perfect for serving. Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for texture and flavor. Next, mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Then, toss in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped. Don't forget to add 2 minced garlic cloves. This will give your meatballs a great taste. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything blends well. After mixing, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a small amount of the mixture and form it into a ball, about 1 inch wide. Place each meatball on a baking sheet or platter. This keeps them organized and prevents sticking. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in your dish. Now for the tasty sauce! In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Mix until it is smooth and well blended. This sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that makes the meatballs shine. Carefully transfer the formed meatballs into the slow cooker. Once all meatballs are in, pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Make sure each meatball gets coated in that delicious sauce. Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for around 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and tender. After cooking, gently stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce before serving. To get the best meatball texture, use ground beef or turkey. I like to mix in breadcrumbs for added fluffiness. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add great flavor too. Always add a beaten egg to bind the meatball. This helps them hold their shape while cooking. When mixing, avoid overworking the meat. This keeps the meatballs tender. Form each meatball into a ball about 1 inch wide. This size cooks evenly and stays juicy. When it’s time to serve, I love pairing these meatballs with rice or noodles. The honey garlic sauce adds a sweet touch. For a bright look, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Thinly sliced green onions also add crunch and color. You can serve them as a main dish or as appetizers. They work well for parties too! Consider adding a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. You can easily prepare these meatballs in advance. Mix the meatball ingredients and form the balls a day before. Place them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Cooking them in the slow cooker is perfect for meal prep. Let them cook while you do other tasks. This saves time and lets you enjoy a tasty meal later on. {{image_4}} You can use different ground meats for these meatballs. Ground turkey gives a lighter taste. Ground pork adds a nice richness. If you want beef, choose lean ground beef. Each meat brings its own flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed. For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Crushed rice crackers work well. You can also use ground oats or almond flour. Check your soy sauce too; use a gluten-free type. These changes keep the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities. You can boost flavors in several fun ways. Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the meat mix. Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes. For a sweet twist, mix in pineapple chunks. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also brighten the dish. These options let you create your own unique version of honey garlic meatballs. After your meal, let the meatballs cool down. Transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the meatballs for added flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, there are a few good ways to heat them. You can use the microwave, which is quick and easy. Place the meatballs in a bowl, cover them, and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating. For the best flavor, try reheating them on the stove. Place meatballs in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce. Heat on low, stirring gently, until warm. This keeps them juicy and tasty. If you want to freeze the meatballs, you can do this easily. Place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date and type of meatballs. They will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for a delicious meal. Yes, you can use a different sauce. Try teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a fun twist. Just make sure the sauce has a nice balance of sweet and savory. You want the flavor to shine through. For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce to your choice. This will add depth and excitement to the dish. Cook the meatballs for about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. This slow cooking makes the meatballs tender and juicy. Check if they are cooked through by cutting one in half. You want them to be hot all the way inside. This ensures you get the best flavor and texture. Yes, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. After that, you can toss them in the honey garlic sauce. This method gives a nice crust while keeping them moist inside. Enjoy experimenting with both methods! You learned how to make tasty honey garlic meatballs. We covered key ingredients and their roles. Next, I shared a simple step-by-step guide. You also saw tips for perfect texture and meal prep. Variations help you customize your dish. Finally, I provided storage and reheating tips. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and make it your own!

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Savor the flavors of these Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs that are easy to prepare and deliciously sticky! Packed with ground beef or turkey and a sweet-savory sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how satisfying it tastes. Discover how to create this mouthwatering dish and impress your family with a comforting meal. Click to explore the full recipe now!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat for added flavor)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

1 cup honey (preferably raw for depth of flavor)

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, and season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and well combined.

    With your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on a baking sheet or platter to keep them organized and prevent sticking.

      In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger until the mixture is well blended and smooth, creating a deliciously sticky sauce.

        Carefully transfer the formed meatballs into the slow cooker. Once all meatballs are in, gently pour the honey garlic sauce over them, ensuring each meatball is generously coated with that sweet and savory goodness.

          Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for approximately 6 hours, or on high for about 3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

            After cooking, use a large spoon to gently stir the meatballs in the sauce for an even coating before serving.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 6 hours | 4-6 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the deliciously glazed meatballs over a fluffy bed of steamed rice or luscious noodles. For a pop of color and flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a handful of thinly sliced green onions before presenting. Enjoy your meal!

                  WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?