These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a tasty treat! They blend sweet honey and spicy buffalo sauce to create the perfect bite. Just toss them in the slow cooker and relax!
I love making these for game day or family gatherings. They disappear so fast, you might want to save a few for yourself! Perfect with toothpicks for easy snacking! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer a lean ground beef for a healthier option, but a mix of beef and pork adds flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, ground turkey or chicken can work, too!
Breadcrumbs: Traditional ones are great, but feel free to use whole wheat or Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available for those with dietary restrictions.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice. If you want it milder, use a hot sauce like sriracha mixed with ketchup. For a smoky flavor, try chipotle sauce or BBQ sauce!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but maple syrup can also be a great substitute! For a sugar-free option, try agave nectar or a sugar-free sweetener.
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender?
Mixing the ingredients gently is key. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Make sure to mix just until everything is combined. Also, consider lightly browning them first for added flavor, but it’s not necessary if you’re in a hurry.
- Use wet hands when shaping; this prevents sticking.
- Keep the meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cooking them in the sauce helps keep them moist. Don’t skip this step!
Enjoy making these delicious meatballs – they’re bound to be a hit!
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires cooking in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low (1.5-2 hours on high). It’s perfect for days when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into about 20-24 meatballs, each roughly 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If your hands are sticking, dampen them slightly with water.
3. Optional Browning:
If you have time, you can brown the meatballs in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until they are nicely browned. This step is optional but adds extra flavor!
4. Place Meatballs in the Slow Cooker:
Put the meatballs into the slow cooker in a single layer if you can. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Make the Honey Buffalo Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the buffalo wing sauce, honey, and butter. Heat gently over low heat until the butter melts and the mixture is nice and smooth.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Pour the honey buffalo sauce evenly over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to make sure all the meatballs are coated with the sauce.
7. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them again with the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm as an appetizer with toothpicks, or over rice or celery sticks for a fun main dish.
Enjoy the sweet heat of these tender Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs! Simply add them to the slow cooker without thawing. Just adjust the cooking time to about 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high until heated through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Be sure to check the label on the buffalo wing sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free as well!
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce and increase the honey to balance it out. Alternatively, you can add a little sour cream or ranch dressing before serving to cool it down.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
To store leftovers, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of sauce to keep them moist.
