Print

Sticky BBQ Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 9 reviews

These Sticky BBQ Slow Cooker Meatballs are tender, flavorful bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or family dinners. Ground beef meatballs are seasoned and browned before being slowly cooked in a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce for several hours, making them incredibly sticky and deliciously saucy. The slow cooking enhances the flavors and ensures juicy meatballs every time.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped onion or shallot
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or less to taste)

Instructions

  1. Make Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, mustard, chopped onion or shallot, bread crumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, using a hand mixer with dough hooks if available, until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 teaspoon each, pressing firmly to keep them intact during cooking.
  2. Cook Meatballs: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Brown the meatballs evenly on all sides until they are cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  3. Slow Cook with Sauce: In a 3-4 quart slow cooker, combine the barbecue sauce, ground paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Add the cooked meatballs into the slow cooker and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Cook on low for 3-4 hours until the meatballs are tender and the sauce is thick and sticky. Keep warm for an additional 1-2 hours on the warm setting if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Firmly shaping the meatballs helps them hold together during cooking.
  • You can bake meatballs as a shortcut instead of frying.
  • Use your preferred brand of barbecue sauce for different flavor profiles.
  • These meatballs are great served as appetizers or with sides like mashed potatoes or rice.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/sticky-bbq-slow-cooker-meatballs-recipe/