These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a perfect mix of sweet and spicy! They’re made with juicy meatballs, smothered in a tasty honey buffalo sauce that packs a flavorful punch.
Honestly, making these meatballs is a breeze! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love serving them at parties—everyone goes back for seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: Chicken or turkey is great for a lighter option, but you can use ground beef if you prefer something heartier. Just remember, the fat content will affect the texture a bit!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs for similar results.
Onions: Fresh onions add flavor, but you can substitute with onion powder if you’re in a pinch. Just use about 1 tablespoon instead of fresh onions.
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but feel free to use any hot sauce that you love. Adjust the amount to suit your taste—add more if you like it spicy!
Honey: Maple syrup can be a nice alternative if you want a different sweetness. It won’t be quite the same, but it can work well if you’re out of honey.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender meatballs is mixing the ingredients gently. Too much mixing can lead to tough meatballs. Here’s how to keep them soft:
- Combine ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings in a large bowl.
- Use your hands to mix until just blended—don’t overdo it!
- When forming meatballs, pack them softly and avoid making them too tight.
If you choose to brown them before cooking, it helps lock in moisture and adds extra flavor. Just remember, it’s not mandatory but can make a difference!
Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 2 lbs ground chicken or turkey (or beef)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Honey Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 2 to 4 hours to cook in the slow cooker, depending on whether you choose the low or high setting. Overall, you can expect about 4 hours and 20 minutes to deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined—don’t overmix! This will help keep your meatballs nice and tender.
2. Form Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or a plate while you prepare to cook them.
3. Optional Browning:
If you want a little extra flavor and texture, heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional, but it does add a nice touch!
4. Make the Honey Buffalo Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, honey, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar until everything is smooth and blended together.
5. Slow Cook:
Place the meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour the honey buffalo sauce over the top, gently stirring to make sure each meatball is coated evenly.
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the meatballs are cooked through, tender, and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
7. Serve:
Once ready, carefully transfer the meatballs to a serving dish. Spoon any extra sauce over the top and garnish with more chopped parsley for a festive touch.
8. Optional Serving Suggestions:
These meatballs are fantastic served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing or ranch for dipping. They can also be enjoyed alongside rice or made into sliders for a fun meal!
Enjoy these tender, juicy meatballs with a deliciously sweet and tangy honey buffalo sauce—perfect for any occasion! 🥳
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs! Just add them directly to the slow cooker along with the honey buffalo sauce. You may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure they’re heated through properly.
Can I Make These Meatballs Spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add some cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also choose a hotter variety of hot sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Bake the Meatballs Instead?
Yes! If you prefer to bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re cooked through, then toss them with the honey buffalo sauce in a separate pan before serving.
