Asian Meatballs Crockpot

Asian Meatballs in the Crockpot are an easy and flavorful dish, featuring tender meatballs coated in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet sauce. With the perfect balance of soy sauce, hoisin, garlic, and ginger, these meatballs make a great party appetizer or a main dish served over rice or noodles. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work for a hands-off meal.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – A delicious mix of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
• Great for Any Occasion – Serve as an appetizer or over rice for a hearty meal.
• Minimal Ingredients – Made with simple pantry staples.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Easy to prepare in advance and reheat when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• Soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• Hoisin sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated)
• Sesame oil
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
• Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Make the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add Meatballs to the Crockpot – Place frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
3. Coat the Meatballs – Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.
4. Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Thicken the Sauce – In the last 30 minutes, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the sauce. Let it cook until thickened.
6. Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm as an appetizer or over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 2-6 hours depending on the setting

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or diced chili peppers.
• Sweeter Option: Increase the honey or brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a fresh citrusy flavor.
• Pineapple Meatballs: Stir in pineapple chunks for a tropical sweet and tangy twist.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use plant-based meatballs for a meatless option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs with sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Yes! Just brown them in a skillet first to help them hold their shape before slow cooking.

What’s the best way to serve Asian meatballs?

They’re great over steamed rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix cornstarch with water and add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I cook these on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer the sauce and meatballs in a pan over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and texture.

Do I need to defrost frozen meatballs before cooking?

No, you can add them directly to the slow cooker frozen.

How can I make the sauce less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce or dilute it with a little water.

Can I double this recipe for a party?

Yes! Just use a larger slow cooker and adjust the sauce ingredients accordingly.

How long can I keep these meatballs warm in the slow cooker?

You can keep them on the “warm” setting for up to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Asian Meatballs in the Crockpot are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a main meal, the sweet and savory glaze makes them absolutely irresistible. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a stress-free, delicious dish!

Asian Meatballs Crockpot

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 2-6 hours (depending on setting)
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Appetizer, Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Halal

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Description

Asian Meatballs in the Crockpot are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Slow-cooked in a rich sauce made with soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and garlic, these tender meatballs are ideal for parties, game days, or easy weeknight meals. Serve them as an appetizer or over rice or noodles for a flavorful dish with minimal effort!

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Make the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add Meatballs to the Crockpot – Place frozen meatballs into the slow cooker.
3. Coat the Meatballs – Pour the sauce over the meatballs and stir to coat evenly.
4. Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Thicken the Sauce – In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce. Let it cook until thickened.
6. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving. Enjoy over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer.

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Notes

• Spicy Option – Add extra red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or diced chili peppers.
• Sweeter Sauce – Increase honey or brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.
• Citrus Twist – Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
• Pineapple Meatballs – Stir in pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy variation.
• Vegetarian Alternative – Use plant-based meatballs for a meatless option.
• Storage – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating – Microwave or warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water if needed.
• Freezing – Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.