These 3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are super easy and oh-so-tasty! You just need meatballs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a splash of honey. Throw them in the crockpot and let the magic happen!
They are perfect for game day or a quick dinner. Honestly, who doesn’t love meatballs swimming in sticky sauce? I could eat them straight from the pot—no shame! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: Frozen meatballs are super convenient and save time. You can use beef, turkey, or veggie meatballs based on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade meatballs using ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices!
BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is what gives these meatballs their tangy flavor. If you want a spicy kick, opt for a spicy variety, or you can make your own by mixing ketchup, vinegar, and spices. For a healthier option, look for lower-sugar or organic sauces.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup works great as substitutes. I even like to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor sometimes!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Coated in Sauce?
Coating your meatballs well in sauce can make or break the dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the meatballs are frozen when you put them in the crockpot. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.
- Mix the BBQ sauce and honey before adding it to the crockpot. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Once they’re cooked, give the meatballs a gentle stir every hour or so. This will help them soak up that delicious sauce.
Trust me, taking a bit of extra time will make your meatballs even more delicious!
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (28 oz) package frozen meatballs (beef or your choice)
- 1 (18 oz) bottle BBQ sauce (your favorite brand/flavor)
- 2 tablespoons honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then a cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your crockpot. Set it and forget it—the perfect hands-off meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs into the crockpot. You can fit as many as you like, but make sure there’s enough room for the sauce to coat them well.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and honey. Give it a good stir until they are mixed well. This sweet and tangy mixture is what will make your meatballs so tasty!
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot, making sure they are completely coated. You want every meatball to be hugged by that lovely sauce!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be heated through and the sauce should be bubbling and thickened by the end of the cooking time.
5. Stir and Serve:
About halfway through, give your meatballs a gentle stir to coat them with more sauce. When they’re ready, serve them warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if you like a little color. They’re great for parties or just a cozy family dinner!
Enjoy these sticky, flavorful BBQ meatballs as an appetizer or main dish!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs instead! Just adjust the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, or until they’re heated through, since they won’t need as much time as frozen ones.
What Should I Do If the Sauce Is Too Thick?
If the sauce gets too thick while cooking, just add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to thin it out. Stir well to incorporate and let it cook a bit longer to heat up.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare everything and refrigerate it in the crockpot insert overnight. In the morning, just plug it in and let it cook. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
