Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe

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If you’re looking for a super easy, kid-approved dinner or a party appetizer that always disappears fast, these Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are the answer. You toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. The sauce is sweet, garlicky, and packed with flavor and the meatballs turn out so tender.

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Why This Recipe Works

I don’t know about you, but around 4:30 p.m., I start asking myself what can I make tonight that won’t cause a mutiny at the dinner table. This recipe saves me every time. It’s one of those throw-it-all-in meals that even picky eaters will love. It only takes a few pantry ingredients and a bag of frozen meatballs. I get mine at Costco.

I first got this recipe from my sister-in-law during a big family birthday party. She had a pot of these simmering away served with white rice and everyone was hovering around the slow cooker. I asked for the recipe that night and haven’t stopped making it since.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz frozen fully cooked meatballs beef turkey or chicken all work
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sesame seeds chopped parsley or cilantro

What you’ll need:

A slow cooker size 3-quart or bigger works great

How to Make It

Step 1: In a mixing bowl whisk together the brown sugar honey ketchup soy sauce and minced garlic. It doesn’t have to be fancy just get it all combined.

Step 2: Add your frozen meatballs straight into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them. Pour the sauce on top and give everything a gentle stir to coat.

Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. I usually give it a stir halfway through to make sure the meatballs are well coated.

Step 4: Once it’s hot and bubbling give it a taste. Add salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.

Easy Mom Tips

Double the sauce if you’re serving over rice or just like things extra saucy
Want a little kick Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes
Out of fresh garlic A sprinkle of garlic powder or garlic salt works too
Feeding a crowd You can easily double this recipe

Serving Ideas

Appetizer style Stick toothpicks in them and bring them to a potluck. They’ll be gone in minutes.
Main dish We usually serve them over jasmine rice or mashed potatoes.
Meatball sandwiches Pile them into rolls or sliders with a little sauce. Instant hit with the kids.

Nutrition Info Per Serving

Calories about 360
Fat 15g
Saturated Fat 5g
Carbohydrates 34g
Fiber 1g
Protein 18g
Sodium 800mg

Quick note: This is just an estimate and can vary depending on the meatballs and sauce brands you use

This is one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket for busy nights or when I just want to know dinner will be drama-free. It’s quick simple and makes the whole house smell amazing