Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining tender, juicy meatballs with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that slowly cooks to perfection. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or even a hearty dinner. The slow cooker allows the meatballs to soak up all the delicious flavors of the BBQ sauce, making them irresistibly flavorful and tender. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes for a meal, these BBQ meatballs will be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
- Assemble in the crockpot: Place a layer of meatballs in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour some of the BBQ sauce over the meatballs. Add another layer of meatballs, continuing to alternate until all the meatballs and sauce are in the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once done, gently stir the meatballs to coat them fully in the sauce. Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Enjoy these flavorful Crockpot BBQ Meatballs for a delicious, easy dish that everyone will love!