BBQ Crockpot Meatballs
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Our Frozen BBQ Crockpot Meatballs features a homemade barbecue sauce that adds a touch of gourmet to this hassle-free dish. Straight from the freezer to the slow cooker, these meatballs effortlessly absorb the rich flavors of our signature sauce. The enticing aroma of slow-cooked perfection will fill your kitchen as you await the moment when these savory bites are ready to be devoured.
BBQ Meatballs are the way to go when hosting a game day party, celebrating the holidays, planning a potluck or simply craving an easy appetizer for a crowd. They truly are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. The sweet and tangy homemade bbq coupled with the ease of slow cooking, makes this recipe a go-to choice time and time again.
What’s even better? You can prep ahead of time, set the ingredients in the crockpot and let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on prepping other appetizers or enjoy the festivities. No matter the occasion, this bbq meatball recipe brings irresistible flavor with minimal effort. I am excited to show you how easy they are to make!
If on the search for other easy appetizers, you’ll want to consider Little Smokies in the Crockpot, Roasted Tomato Dip and the creamy, cheesy sensation of Rotel Sausage Dip.
Table of Contents
Why I Love Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
- Effortless Cooking: This is a dream recipe for busy hosts or home cooks offering a large spread of appetizers. You can toss all ingredients together then step away to let the crockpot do the work.
- Crowd-Pleasing Recipe: BBQ meatballs are enjoyed by all – they are savory and sweet to make them a hit with guests of all ages, from kids to adults.
- Perfect for all Occasions: My recipe fits into virtually any event, whether it is game day, or you are making them for a baby shower or family reunion, these crockpot meatballs are also perfect for a casual event.
BBQ Meatball Ingredients
- Frozen meatballs: you can use mini meatballs or full size – totally depends on your preference! You can also opt for beef and pork meatballs or chicken, turkey or a plant-based alternative.
- Ketchup: any store brand works great.
- A1 Steak sauce: similar to the ketchup, any brand will work. Choose based on taste preference or affordability.
- Liquid smoke: it will come in a few different varieties such as hickory, mesquite or applewood so just pick your favorite.
- Molasses: this is used to thicken the homemade bbq while also adding a hint of sweetness to the meatballs.
- All-Purpose Steakhouse Seasoning: the blend will help to elevate the overall flavor of the crockpot meatballs.
- Water: necessary to achieve the best bbq consistency and to keep the meatballs moist while in the slow cooker.
How To Make BBQ Meatballs in Crockpot
STEP ONE: Combine the BBQ sauce. In a mixing bowl combine the ketchup, A1 steak sauce, liquid smoke, molasses, steakhouse seasoning, and water. Stir well.
STEP TWO: Prep and cook the meatballs. Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot. Add the BBQ sauce, stir. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Meatballs are great on their own, but you can certainly pair with another appetizer of choice or keep things simple with chips and crackers. One of my favorite side options for parties are fresh veggie sticks like carrots and celery or fruit skewers.
Don’t forget about this recipe when craving an easy weeknight dinner meal. These slow cooker bbq meatballs can be served over rice, mashed potatoes or on sub rolls for meatball sandwiches.
Tips for Making Crockpot Appetizer Meatballs
- Do not thaw the meatballs before adding to the slow cooker. Simply toss the frozen meatballs directly from the freezer into the crockpot for best results.
- To make cleanup easier, consider using a slow cooker liner. It will prevent the sauce from sticking to the sides and make washing up a breeze.
- Be aware of the size of your crockpot before doubling the recipe if feeding a crowd. Verify the crockpot can accommodate all the meatballs before adding the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Serve the meatballs warm by turning the crockpot to the “Keep Warm” setting during your event. This recipe is hands-off but giving the meatballs a gentle stir every hour or so can help keep them well-coated in the sauce and heated thoroughly.
- Keep toothpicks, mini forks or small skewers nearby the crockpot to make it easier for guests to serve without a mess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use uncooked meatballs instead of frozen ones in a crockpot. When using uncooked meatballs, you can brown them first in a skillet to develop flavor and ensure they hold their shape during slow cooking. After browning, you can transfer the meatballs to the crockpot and cook them with your preferred sauce or ingredients. Cooking times may be slightly shorter than when using frozen meatballs since you are starting with raw meat.
Yes, if in a pinch and want to use storebought bbq instead of making a homemade version that is an option. Simply add the meatballs into the slow cooker with your bbq of choice. To balance out the tanginess of the bbq, I recommend keeping molasses as an ingredient or swapping with honey, jelly or pineapple juice.
If planning to keep the meatballs in the slow cooker for an extended period of time such as for an event or party, you may need to add 1-2 Tablespoons of water after a few hours if the sauce seems like it is drying out.
Storage Instructions
Allow the crock pot frozen meatballs to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Fridge: If you plan to consume the leftovers within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Freezer: If you won’t be eating the leftovers within 3-4 days, freezing is a great option to extend their shelf life. Place the meatballs in an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Consider dividing the leftovers into smaller portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw only what you need for future meals, reducing food waste.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain their texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can thaw them in the microwave using the defrost setting.
When reheating the meatballs, ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. You can reheat them in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
More Easy Appetizers
- Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- BBQ Chicken Wings
- Out-of-this-World Corn Dip (Crack Corn Dip)
- Salted Caramel Popcorn
BBQ Crockpot Meatballs
Ingredients
- 28 ounces frozen meatballs
- 24 ounces ketchup
- 1 tablespoon A1 Steaksauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Steakhouse Seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Combine the BBQ sauce. In a mixing bowl combine the ketchup, A1 steaksauce, liquid smoke, molasses, steakhouse seasoning, and water. Stir well.
- Prep and cook the meatballs. Add the frozen meatballs to the crockpot. Add the BBQ sauce, stir. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours.
Video
Notes
- Do not thaw the meatballs before adding to the slow cooker. Simply toss the frozen meatballs directly from the freezer into the crockpot for best results.
- To make cleanup easier, consider using a slow cooker liner. It will prevent the sauce from sticking to the sides and make washing up a breeze.
- Be aware of the size of your crockpot before doubling the recipe if feeing a crowd. Verify the crockpot can accommodate all the meatballs before adding the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Serve the meatballs warm by turning the crockpot to the “Keep Warm” setting during your event. This recipe is hands-off but giving the meatballs a gentle stir every hour or so can help keep them well-coated in the sauce and heated thoroughly.
- Keep toothpicks, mini forks or small skewers nearby the crockpot to make it easier for guests to serve without a mess.
