BBQ Meatballs in the Crockpot: A Family Favorite Recipe
When it comes to comfort food that pleases everyone, BBQ meatballs in the crockpot are an absolute winner. This dish combines juicy meatballs with a rich, tangy barbecue sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, serving a weeknight dinner, or looking for a simple recipe that your kids will love, this one checks all the boxes!
The best part? You can prepare everything in advance and let your crockpot do the work. Just toss the ingredients in, set it, and forget it! In a few hours, you’ll have delicious, tender meatballs ready to be devoured. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that is sure to become a staple in your household.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
Total Time:
4 hours 10 minutes (or 2 hours 10 minutes on high)
Servings:
6-8 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In the crockpot, mix together the BBQ sauce and water until well blended.
- Gently place the meatballs into the crockpot, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Once finished, serve the meatballs alongside extra BBQ sauce for dipping or over a bed of rice.
- Enjoy your delicious BBQ meatballs with family and friends!
Tips for Making the Best BBQ Meatballs
To elevate your BBQ meatballs even further, consider these tips:
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef that is 80/20 or leaner for less grease.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different BBQ sauces for unique flavors, such as spicy, smoky, or sweet.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them before cooking.
- Serve Creatively: These meatballs can be served in various ways—on sliders, over pasta, or even as a pizza topping!
Conclusion
These BBQ meatballs in the crockpot are not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that brings the family together. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients, fire up the crockpot, and get ready for a flavor-packed feast!
