Craving a dinner that’s both simple and satisfying? Look no further! BBQ Meatballs Crockpot is your answer to a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal. Forget slaving over the stove – these meatballs practically cook themselves! As a busy parent, finding recipes that are both kid-approved and easy to make is a lifesaver. This BBQ Meatballs Crockpot recipe is one of those lifesavers. Give it a try and watch everyone devour them!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandma used to make the BEST meatballs – tender, juicy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This BBQ Meatballs Crockpot recipe is my attempt to recreate that magic, but with a modern, easy twist. While not exactly her recipe, the comforting BBQ flavor and simple crockpot method always bring back those wonderful memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. It’s more than just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1 Egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup Onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup Ketchup
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- In a large bowl, gently mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the meatballs in the crockpot.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Best Results
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture! Overmixing leads to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated. For a smoother sauce, consider using a blender or immersion blender to combine the BBQ sauce ingredients. This helps dissolve the brown sugar and creates a more uniform flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made meatballs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness around 2-3 hours on low. Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces! A sweet and tangy sauce pairs well with the savory meatballs, but you can use your favorite brand or recipe. For added flavor, try browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step isn’t necessary, but it does enhance the richness of the dish. Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked before serving. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ Meatballs Crockpot are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many ways. For a classic meal, serve them over mashed potatoes or rice. The rich BBQ sauce is perfect for soaking into the fluffy base. Another great option is to serve them on slider buns for a fun and easy appetizer. Top them with coleslaw and pickles for added flavor and texture. For a lighter meal, serve them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Broccoli, green beans, or a simple garden salad are all excellent choices. They’re also fantastic as a game-day snack! Keep them warm in the crockpot and let everyone help themselves. Add toothpicks for easy grabbing. And don’t forget the sides! Cornbread, potato salad, or baked beans are all classic BBQ accompaniments that complement these meatballs perfectly.
Conclusion
This BBQ Meatballs Crockpot recipe is more than just a simple dish; it’s a flavorful, convenient, and crowd-pleasing meal that fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. From the heartwarming memories it evokes to the sheer ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again. The beauty of the crockpot method lies in its hands-off approach, allowing you to focus on other tasks while a delicious dinner simmers away. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a fun appetizer for a party, or simply a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this BBQ Meatballs Crockpot is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, plug in your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and effortless meal. Welcome to an easy way to enjoy delicious food!
BBQ Meatballs Crockpot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, gently mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the meatballs in the crockpot.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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