Crock Pot Party Meatballs
Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations
Crock Pot Party Meatballs are the perfect addition to any gathering, providing a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that everyone will love.
These Crock Pot Party Meatballs are not just a dish; they are a crowd-pleaser! Slow-cooked to perfection, they are bursting with flavor and will keep your guests coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender meatballs simmered in a rich sauce
- Effortless preparation with the convenience of a slow cooker
- Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings
A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
Crock Pot Party Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a casual get-together, these savory meatballs will have your guests coming back for seconds. Their delightful combination of flavors and tender texture makes them an irresistible snack that pairs perfectly with a variety of beverages.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings and sauces to suit your taste and the theme of your event. From tangy barbecue to sweet and spicy, the options are endless. With minimal preparation and the slow cooker doing all the work, you'll have more time to enjoy the company of your guests.
Easy Preparation and Cleanup
One of the standout features of this recipe is how effortless it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up delicious meatballs in no time. The slow cooker takes over, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you focus on other party preparations or simply relax.
Cleanup is also a breeze. Since everything cooks in the crock pot, you'll have fewer dishes to wash afterward. Just line your slow cooker with a disposable liner for even easier cleanup! This means more time to spend with friends and family, enjoying the festivities rather than stressing over the kitchen mess.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These meatballs are not just for parties; they can be a great addition to any meal. Serve them as a main dish alongside pasta or rice, or offer them as an appetizer at your next family gathering. Their hearty nature makes them suitable for game days, holiday celebrations, or even movie nights at home.
With just the right balance of sweetness and tang, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and keep them warm in the crock pot, ensuring that they are always ready to serve whenever hunger strikes!
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and ensure meatballs are evenly shaped.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into 1-inch meatballs.
Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, grape jelly, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
Combine and Cook
Place meatballs in the crock pot and pour the sauce over them. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and heated thoroughly.
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Party Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic approach, serve them on toothpicks for easy snacking. You can also offer them in sliders, using small buns topped with cheese and your favorite toppings. Pair them with a side of dipping sauces to add an extra layer of flavor.
Consider creating a meatball platter with an assortment of sauces, such as spicy sriracha, creamy ranch, or even a homemade garlic aioli. This allows your guests to customize their experience and adds an element of fun to the meal. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover meatballs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them an excellent option for meal prep.
When you're ready to enjoy your meatballs again, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. If using a slow cooker, add a little extra sauce to prevent drying out and warm them on low until heated through. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal or snack any day of the week!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just increase the cooking time accordingly.
→ Can I make these meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
They are great on their own, but you can also serve them with rice, pasta, or in a sub for a meatball sandwich.
→ Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Crock Pot Party Meatballs
Crock Pot Party Meatballs are the perfect addition to any gathering, providing a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that everyone will love.
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Warm Bowl Creations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 20 servings
What You'll Need
Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into 1-inch meatballs.
In a separate bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, grape jelly, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
Place meatballs in the crock pot and pour the sauce over them. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and heated thoroughly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 10g