Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs (Printable version)

Homemade meatballs cooked low and slow in a tangy smoky barbecue sauce for rich flavor.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
02 - 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 0.25 cup finely chopped onion
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
08 - 1 tsp salt
09 - 0.5 tsp black pepper

→ BBQ Sauce

10 - 1.5 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
11 - 0.25 cup ketchup
12 - 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
13 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
14 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
15 - 0.5 tsp smoked paprika

# How-To Steps:

01 - Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to avoid toughness.
02 - Shape mixture into 1.5-inch diameter meatballs and arrange on a baking sheet.
03 - For firmer meatballs, broil or bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly browned.
04 - Whisk together barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika in a separate bowl.
05 - Place meatballs in slow cooker, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat evenly.
06 - Cover and cook on low for 3 hours until meatballs reach a tender, cooked-through consistency.
07 - Present hot as an appetizer with toothpicks or atop rice, mashed potatoes, or buns as a main course.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • For a spicy kick, add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the sauce.
03 -
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