These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a fantastic mix of sweet and spicy! The sauce is sticky and delicious, making each bite a treat. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
If you’re like me, you might find yourself sneaking a few meatballs before they even hit the table! 🍽️ They’re perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. Throw them in the slow cooker and let them do their thing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using turkey or even plant-based meatballs!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice. If you want more heat, go for a spicier brand or make your own with hot sauce and vinegar. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using barbecue sauce instead for a tangy twist.
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the heat. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup works well too, giving a slightly different flavor while keeping it sweet.
Butter: It helps to create a smooth sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can skip the butter or use olive oil – just add it in a bit earlier to let it combine well with the sauce.
Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: These spices enhance flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even cayenne could work for a little extra kick!
How Do I Cook Meatballs to Ensure They’re Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to cooking meatballs perfectly in a slow cooker is not to rush the process. Here’s how to achieve tender meatballs:
- Start with frozen meatballs for even cooking.
- The sauce mixture should completely coat the meatballs. This adds flavor as they cook.
- Cooking them on low heat (4–5 hours) allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Stir gently before serving to keep them intact and well-sauced.
Remember that slow cooking creates a delicious, sticky sauce that clings to the meatballs. It’s all about patience and letting the magic happen in the pot!
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 1/2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. It couldn’t be easier—no need to thaw them! Just pour them in even if they’re stuck together.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce, honey, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Make sure everything blends well—this is where the magic starts!
3. Coat the Meatballs:
Pour the sauce mixture over the frozen meatballs. Gently stir them to make sure each meatball gets coated with that delicious sauce. It’s okay if some aren’t fully covered; they will soak in the flavors as they cook.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re heated through and the sauce thickens. The longer they cook, the more flavor they’ll absorb!
5. Serve:
Before serving, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them in sauce again. If you want to add a pop of color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top. These meatballs are fantastic as an appetizer or served over rice or with veggies for a complete meal.
Enjoy your sticky, sweet, and spicy meatballs perfect for any gathering! They’ll surely be a hit! 🎉
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you have homemade meatballs, feel free to use them. Just make sure they are cooked through before adding them to the slow cooker, as the cooking time may vary compared to frozen meatballs.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the heat, you can add extra buffalo sauce or include a dash of cayenne pepper in the sauce mixture. If you enjoy extra spice, consider garnishing with sliced jalapeños before serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a splash of water to the sauce to keep it moist during reheating!
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs! Let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!