Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs
Sweet, savory, and effortlessly satisfying, these Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs are the kind of dish you whip up when you want something comforting but hands-off. With just a few ingredients and your slow cooker doing most of the heavy lifting, you’ll have tender, juicy meatballs coated in a sticky, garlicky glaze that’s both kid-approved and perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
These meatballs come together with a luscious sauce made from honey, garlic, and soy sauce that thickens and clings to each bite like a dream. They’re the ultimate appetizer that can double as a main when paired with rice or noodles. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that reheat beautifully, this recipe fits the bill.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, minimal prep, and universally loved. The sweet and savory glaze has just the right amount of tang and stickiness to make every bite irresistible. Plus, it only takes a few pantry staples to pull it off. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require standing over a stove.
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs?
Absolutely! That’s part of what makes this recipe so convenient. Using store-bought frozen meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based) saves time and effort. Just toss them into the Crockpot with the sauce ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic. You can use homemade meatballs too if you have some prepped in advance.
Ingredients for the Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and freezer. That’s the beauty of it—easy to make, yet packed with flavor.
Frozen meatballs: These are the star of the show. Choose your favorite variety—beef, turkey, or vegetarian.
Honey: Brings the natural sweetness that makes the glaze so addictive.
Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami depth to balance the sweet.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for that aromatic kick.
Ketchup: Adds body and a subtle tang to the sauce.
Brown sugar: Enhances the caramelization and adds a deeper molasses note.
Cornstarch + Water: This combo helps thicken the sauce just before serving.

How To Make the Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs
Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and garlic until smooth.
Step 2: Add Meatballs to Crockpot
Place your frozen meatballs directly into the Crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and stir to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Low and Let the Flavor Develop
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to ensure even coating.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the Crockpot. This will help the sauce become thick and glossy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is thickened and the meatballs are heated through, serve hot over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
How to Serve and Store Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs
This recipe feeds 6 to 8 people generously, especially when served with a side. It’s a hit at potlucks or game days and even better as leftovers the next day.
To store, let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What to Serve With Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs?
Steamed Jasmine Rice
The meatballs soak into the rice beautifully, making each bite a sweet-savory delight.
Garlic Butter Noodles
Mild, buttery noodles let the honey garlic sauce shine without overpowering it.
Roasted Broccoli
Adds a crunchy, fresh contrast that balances the richness of the sauce.
Mashed Potatoes
Unexpected but incredibly comforting—the sauce acts like a flavorful gravy.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
A quick veggie medley is perfect to round out this as a full meal.
Hawaiian Rolls
Serve meatballs slider-style for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Cauliflower Rice
A low-carb pairing that still delivers satisfaction.
Want More Dinner Ideas That Practically Cook Themselves?
If you love these Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs, you might also enjoy these easy and delicious recipes:
- Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
- Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
- Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
- Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or keep it sweet? Did you use turkey meatballs instead? I love hearing your twists and serving ideas.
Explore more easy crowd-pleasing slow cooker recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover something new to try this week.
Conclusion
Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs are the definition of cozy and convenient. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a party, or just want something satisfying after a long day, this dish comes together with almost no effort and delivers bold, sticky-sweet flavor every single time.

Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Description
These Crockpot Honey Garlic Meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. A sweet and savory glaze made with honey, soy sauce, and garlic coats frozen meatballs for the perfect easy appetizer or dinner idea. This slow cooker meatball recipe is a family favorite and perfect for parties, meal prep, or weeknights.
Ingredients
32 oz frozen meatballs
0.5 cup honey
0.5 cup soy sauce
0.25 cup ketchup
0.25 cup brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and minced garlic until smooth.
2. Place frozen meatballs into the Crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them. Stir to coat evenly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir it into the Crockpot about 30 minutes before serving.
5. Let the sauce thicken. Once glossy and sticky, serve the meatballs hot over rice, noodles, or on their own.
Notes
Let the sauce thicken fully before serving for the best texture.
Use turkey or plant-based meatballs if preferred.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~6 meatballs
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg


