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Savory Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs

savory crockpot honey garlic meatballs - featured image

Tender and juicy meatballs slow-cooked in a sticky, flavorful honey garlic sauce. This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and crowd-pleasing dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned; Panko works great)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs, about 20 to 24 total.
  3. Optional: Brown the meatballs in a skillet with a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger.
  5. Place meatballs in the crockpot in a single layer if possible. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature 160°F).
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the crockpot and cook uncovered to thicken the sauce.
  8. Stir gently before serving. Adjust salt or add chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Browning meatballs before slow cooking is optional but adds flavor and firmer texture. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free version. Parmesan can be omitted or substituted for dairy-free option. Avoid lifting the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain heat. Add chili flakes for a spicy kick. Fresh garlic is preferred over garlic powder for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic meatballs, crockpot meatballs, slow cooker dinner, easy meatball recipe, comfort food, weeknight dinner