Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs

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Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs

Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a delicious way to elevate the classic meatball with a mouthwatering twist of sweet and spicy flavors. If you’re searching for the perfect dish that combines simplicity and taste, look no further! This recipe is easy to prepare and can transform your gatherings into a feast. With our step-by-step approach, you’ll have these flavorful meatballs ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it requires minimal effort—allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meatballs without the stress of complicated cooking methods. Plus, it’s incredibly family-friendly; the combination of honey and hot sauce appeals to even picky eaters. Whether you’re hosting game day or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

To make your mouthwatering Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup pure honey
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create tender and juicy meatballs with a sticky, flavorful glaze that you will absolutely love!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Mix the Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, soy sauce, and half of the honey. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough meatballs.

2. Form the Meatballs:

   • Take a small portion of the mixture and form it into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they are evenly spaced so they cook properly.

3. Optional Step – Sear the Meatballs:

   • For added flavor, you can sear the meatballs in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step enhances the meatballs’ flavor profile, giving them a nice crust. However, it’s not mandatory if you’re short on time or prefer a simpler preparation.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining honey and the hot sauce until well blended. This mixture is what gives your meatballs that delightful glaze that everyone will love.

5. Slow Cook:

   • Pour the honey-hot sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Ensure that each meatball is coated in the sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meatballs are fully cooked through and tender.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Before serving, garnish the meatballs with chopped green onions for a fresh and vibrant pop. The green onions add an excellent crunch and balance the flavors beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Skip the Searing: While optional, searing the meatballs adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Customize Your Sauce: If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the amount of hot sauce used or mix in some additional honey to balance it out.
• Add More Aromatics: Feel free to mix in some diced onion or bell pepper into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs can be served in various ways. They are perfect as an appetizer at parties, served alongside colorful vegetable trays. You can also pile them on slider buns for a delicious sandwich. Pair them with a fresh garden salad or some crunchy coleslaw for a complete meal. For a more casual feel, serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 4 meatballs):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 7g

Keep in mind this is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and substitutions.

Storing Tips & Variations

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Variations:

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Experiment with different hot sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.
• For a vegan version, try using plant-based meat alternatives and adjust the binding ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a must-try for anyone looking to impress family and friends with minimal effort. The combination of sweet honey and spicy sauce creates a memorable flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!). So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

   • Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your hot sauce is gluten-free.

2. How can I make the meatballs spicier?

   • To increase the heat, add chili flakes or use a hotter variety of hot sauce.

3. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

   • Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well; just be sure to adjust cooking time for leaner meats.

4. What should I do if the meatballs are too wet?

   • If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs.

5. Can these meatballs be served cold?

   • While best served warm, you can enjoy them cold as a quick snack or appetizer!

Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Delicious meatballs with a sweet and spicy honey buffalo glaze, perfect for gatherings or a family meal.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 240 minutes
• Total Time: 255 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free (with adjustments)

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup pure honey
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, soy sauce, and half of the honey. Mix until just combined.
2. Take small portions of the mixture and form into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Optional: Sear the meatballs in a hot skillet until browned on all sides.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining honey and hot sauce until well blended.
5. Pour the honey-hot sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

For added flavor, sear the meatballs before slow cooking. Adjust the hot sauce for spiciness as desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 meatballs
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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