These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a tasty treat! They are sweet and spicy, making them perfect for any party or game day snack.
Honestly, these meatballs disappear fast! I love serving them with toothpicks, so everyone can just grab and go. Plus, they simmer to perfection while I relax—such a win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a mix of beef and pork for flavor and juiciness, but you can go with all beef or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work fine, but you can substitute with crushed crackers or oats if you want a gluten-free option.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is popular, but you can use any brand of buffalo sauce you like. If you prefer less heat, try a mild version or mix it with barbecue sauce.
Honey: For a lower sugar option, use maple syrup or agave nectar, which will also give a lovely flavor twist.
How Do I Ensure the Meatballs Stay Tender?
Getting tender meatballs is all about the mixing and baking method. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just blend until combined.
- If you can, browning them in a pan first adds flavor and helps maintain moisture.
- Make sure to cook them at a low temperature in the slow cooker, which helps them cook gently and stay tender.
Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Honey Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation, plus cooking time. You can cook it on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours in the slow cooker. Total time to enjoy these delicious meatballs is around 4 hours if you go low, or just under 2.5 hours if you choose high! Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, parsley, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix it all together gently, but be careful not to overwork it. You want everything combined but still nice and tender. Then, shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a large plate or baking sheet.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
If you want a deeper flavor and a firmer texture, take a skillet and lightly brown the meatballs for about 3-4 minutes on medium heat, turning to get them golden. This step is optional but adds extra flavor! Once browned, carefully transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the buffalo hot sauce, honey, butter, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Stir it gently until the butter melts and everything blends smoothly into a delicious sauce.
4. Slow Cook:
Pour the honey buffalo sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Gently stir everything to make sure all the meatballs are well coated with the yummy sauce! Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours. The meatballs should be cooked through and tender when they’re done!
5. Serve:
Once cooked, ladle the meatballs and sauce into a serving bowl. For a fresh touch, sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve them warm, and you can use toothpicks for easy snacking. They are perfect paired with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing if you like! Enjoy these sweet and spicy bites!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great lean option, but keep in mind that the meatballs may be slightly less juicy. If using turkey, you might want to add a bit more moisture with extra milk or an additional egg.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Just refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to cook, combine them in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions!
What Can I Serve With Honey Buffalo Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing. You can also serve them over rice, pasta, or as a sub sandwich filling for a fun twist!