These easy 3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are perfect for any gathering! With tasty meatballs smothered in sweet BBQ sauce, you’ll have a hit on your hands!
Honestly, the smell while they cook is just mouthwatering. I often munch on them straight from the crockpot, and I bet you’ll do the same! 😄
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. Just toss everything in and let the crockpot do its magic. Perfect for a lazy cooking day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs based on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, homemade meatballs made with ground turkey or chicken can work well too. You can even swap in veggie meatballs for a plant-based version!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; sweet, tangy, or spicy depending on your taste. If you’re watching sugar intake, opt for a low-sugar BBQ sauce, or make your own using tomato sauce, honey, and spices. Experimenting with different flavors can add a nice twist!
Dry Onion Soup Mix: This adds a great flavor boost! If you don’t have it, you can mix onion powder and garlic powder (about 1 tsp each) as a substitute. Some people also like to use ranch seasoning for a different kick!
How Do You Ensure Your Meatballs Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking meatballs in a crockpot is super easy, but timing is key. You want them to be heated through without becoming mushy. Here are some tips:
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Make sure there’s enough space in the crockpot for the heat to circulate, so don’t pack it too tightly.
- **Cook Time:** Keep an eye on them. Cooking on low for 4-6 hours lets the flavors meld beautifully, while high heat for 2-3 hours keeps them moist and tender.
- **Stir Gently:** When mixing the ingredients, stir gently so the meatballs stay whole and maintain their shape.
- **Check Doneness:** Use a meat thermometer if unsure; meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs: You can choose beef, turkey, or any meatball of your choice.
- 2 cups BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your homemade version!
- 1 packet of dry onion soup mix: About 1 oz to add flavor.
How Much Time Will You Need?
Overall, this recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a fantastic set-it-and-forget-it meal that lets you enjoy your day while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing all your frozen meatballs directly into the crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them first – they’ll cook perfectly from frozen!
2. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Next, pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs. Make sure they are nicely coated for the best flavor. Feel free to add more or less sauce depending on your taste preference!
3. Sprinkle the Onion Soup Mix:
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the top of the meatballs. This will add an extra layer of delicious flavor to your dish.
4. Stir Gently:
Using a large spoon, gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients. Be careful not to crush the meatballs; we want them to stay whole!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when heated through, and the sauce is nice and thick.
6. Serving:
Before serving, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them in the thickened sauce. It’s all about that flavor!
7. Optional Garnish:
If you’d like to jazz it up a bit, garnish the meatballs with some chopped parsley or green onions before serving. It adds a nice pop of color!
Enjoy your easy and delicious crockpot BBQ meatballs! Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs! Just reduce the cooking time. Fresh meatballs will likely only need about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, or until they are cooked through.
What BBQ Sauce Works Best?
Your favorite BBQ sauce will work great! For a unique twist, try using apple cider vinegar-based sauce for tang or a smoky sauce for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture of meatballs, BBQ sauce, and onion soup in advance. Just store it in the fridge overnight and then cook it the next day in the crockpot.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
