Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish—sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a party appetizer or an easy weeknight dinner, these meatballs are coated in a sticky, garlicky glaze that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen or homemade meatballshoneysoy saucesriracha or hot saucesgarlic (minced)ketchuprice vinegar or apple cider vinegarginger (optional)green onions and sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

directions

Place meatballs in the bottom of your slow cooker.

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, vinegar, and sriracha.

Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring halfway through.

Once cooked, stir to coat meatballs in the thickened sauce.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Serve hot as an appetizer or over rice or noodles as a main dish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 2-4 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 5 minutes to 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Add crushed pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.

Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.

Swap sriracha for sweet chili sauce for a milder heat.

Serve in sub rolls for a meatball sandwich.

Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers for a full meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until warmed through.Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes, just cook or brown them first before adding to the slow cooker.

Are these meatballs spicy?

They have a mild kick; adjust sriracha to your taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker has enough capacity and stir occasionally.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure meatballs are gluten-free.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, mix the sauce and meatballs and refrigerate overnight before slow cooking.

What’s the best way to serve them?

Over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Do I need to thaw frozen meatballs?

No, they can go in frozen; just adjust the cook time if needed.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers or snap peas go great and can be added halfway through.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s sweet and savory with adjustable spice.

Will the sauce thicken?

Yes, it thickens as it cooks and coats the meatballs nicely.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are an easy, delicious way to please a crowd or enjoy a cozy night in. With their sticky, flavorful glaze and effortless preparation, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your rotation—minimal work, maximum flavor.