Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

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When dinner needs to be delicious but hands-off, slow cooker teriyaki meatballs come to the rescue. These juicy, flavor-packed bites are simmered in a sticky-sweet homemade teriyaki sauce that clings to every bite, turning a basic meatball into something special. Whether you’re serving them over rice, stuffing them into sub rolls, or offering them up at a potluck, they never disappoint.

What makes this recipe even better is the simplicity. You can use frozen meatballs straight from the freezer, toss them into the slow cooker with a rich sauce made from pantry staples, and let it do its thing. In a few hours, you’ll have an irresistible dish that feels way more indulgent than the effort it takes.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

These meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The sauce hits that perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory, and the slow cooking gives everything time to meld into one mouthwatering bite. They’re ideal for meal prep, parties, or just a no-fuss weeknight dinner. Plus, they reheat beautifully, which means leftovers are something to look forward to.

Can I Use Store-Bought or Homemade Meatballs?

Absolutely! Frozen store-bought meatballs work perfectly and save time, especially when you’re in a rush. But if you have homemade meatballs on hand, they’ll elevate the dish even further. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker. Turkey, beef, pork, or even chicken meatballs can all work well in this recipe.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

This dish is built on a few staple ingredients that create a rich and glossy teriyaki sauce. Each ingredient adds its own punch of flavor or essential texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Frozen meatballs
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Honey
• Rice vinegar
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients come together for a sauce that’s glossy, garlicky, and sweet in all the right ways. The cornstarch and water slurry helps the sauce thicken to that perfect clingy texture that hugs each meatball.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, and rice vinegar. This forms the base of your teriyaki sauce, rich and savory with a hint of sweetness.

Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker

Add your frozen meatballs into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Set your slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours or on high for about 2.5-3 hours.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce. This will thicken things up to that perfect, silky consistency.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs

This recipe makes enough to feed about 6 people as a main course or more as an appetizer. Serve them hot over white rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice if you’re going low carb. You can also pile them into sub rolls for delicious meatball sandwiches or serve them with toothpicks at a party.

To store, transfer cooled meatballs and sauce to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Teriyaki Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Classic and simple, it soaks up all that amazing teriyaki sauce perfectly.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Quick stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add crunch and color.

Cucumber Salad

A fresh, chilled cucumber salad balances out the richness with a light crunch.

Garlic Noodles

Savory, buttery noodles make a flavorful and filling side.

Pineapple Fried Rice

The sweet and savory combo complements the teriyaki sauce wonderfully.

Sesame Green Beans

Lightly sauteed green beans with sesame oil and seeds add a nutty side option.

Asian Slaw

A zesty cabbage-based slaw gives the meal texture and brightness.

Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls

For a party or appetizer spread, these are always a welcome companion.

Want More Meatball Recipes?

If you love these slow cooker teriyaki meatballs, you’ll probably enjoy these other meatball-packed dishes too:

• Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Garlic Orzo
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken
• Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with beef or turkey meatballs? Add a dash of spice or keep it sweet?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and easy dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next meal inspiration!

Conclusion

Slow cooker teriyaki meatballs check every box: easy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a group or stocking your fridge with leftovers. With a glossy, sticky sauce and tender meatballs, this recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try and it just might earn a regular spot in your rotation.

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