These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a tasty treat. They’re sweet and spicy, making them perfect for a party or a cozy night in!
Making these meatballs is super easy! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you relax—great for busy days or if you’re feeling lazy. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef or pork meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey meatballs are a great alternative, or try homemade if you have the time!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is popular, but you could use any hot sauce you enjoy. If you prefer milder flavors, blend it with a little BBQ sauce for a sweeter touch.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness but feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor or agave syrup for a vegan option.
Butter: If you’re dairy-free, you can switch to olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika enhance the flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder works fine. For less heat, omit the cayenne pepper.
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your meatballs juicy, don’t overcook them. Cooking on low for 4 hours allows them to absorb all that delicious sauce without drying out. Stirring occasionally during cooking helps distribute the sauce evenly, ensuring every meatball is flavorful.
- Layer the meatballs in a way that they get coated equally with sauce.
- If you notice the sauce getting too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth for moisture.
- Make sure to keep the lid on during cooking for the best results.
Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 4 hours to cook on low in the slow cooker (or 2 hours on high). It’s super simple and perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal ready without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the buffalo wing sauce, honey, butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Microwave this mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring well until the butter is melted and everything is nicely blended together.
2. Add the Meatballs:
Now, grab your slow cooker and add the frozen meatballs. Spread them out so they are in an even layer as much as possible.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the honey buffalo sauce over the meatballs. Gently stir to coat each meatball with the sauce, making sure they are all covered evenly.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. If you can, stir them once or twice during cooking to keep the meatballs nicely coated in sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When they’re done cooking, give the meatballs a final stir to coat them well with the sauce again. Transfer them to a serving dish, and feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if you like a pop of color.
Enjoy them warm as a delicious appetizer with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or serve them as a main dish alongside rice or some veggies!
Enjoy your sweet and spicy slow cooker honey buffalo meatballs! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-1.5 hours on high, or until they are thoroughly cooked. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use a hotter wing sauce to give it an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just use it straight from the fridge when you’re ready to cook the meatballs. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
