Easy BBQ Meatballs Crockpot Appetizer Recipe

The moment you take a bite of these Easy BBQ Meatballs, the tender texture and explosion of flavors will transport you to a summer BBQ party. The sweet and tangy aroma of BBQ sauce fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. With each bite, the juicy meatballs coated in a rich, velvety sauce melt in your mouth, leaving you wanting more.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hassle-free appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! By using a crockpot, you can cook the meatballs to perfection while you’re busy with other tasks. Check out our recipe collection, including this Easy BBQ Meatballs Crockpot Appetizer Recipe, for more inspiration on delicious and effortless dishes.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and eggs provides a tender and cohesive texture, while the addition of onion and bell pepper adds natural sweetness.
Using a crockpot allows for hands-off cooking, making this recipe perfect for busy days or events.
The BBQ sauce adds a depth of flavor and a sticky, caramelized exterior that complements the meatballs perfectly.

Key Ingredients

When it comes to choosing the right ingredients, make sure to select a high-quality ground meat that’s at least 80% lean. You can also use a combination of beef, pork, and veal for added flavor. For the BBQ sauce, opt for a thick and sweet variety that will caramelize nicely during cooking. If you’re looking for more recipe ideas and ingredient tips, check out our collection at How to make Easy BBQ Meatballs Crockpot Appetizer Recipe.

Another crucial ingredient is the breadcrumbs, which help bind the meat mixture together. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference. Fresh onion and bell pepper add a pop of color and natural sweetness, making this dish perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Easy BBQ Meatballs Crockpot Appetizer Recipe

★★★★★ (55 Reviews)

Level:
Easy

Prep:
15 min

Cook:
25 min

Yield:
4 Servings

Ingredients

1 pound ground meat (80% lean)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped bell pepper

1 cup BBQ sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: toothpicks for serving

Directions

Preheat your crockpot to low heat. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.

Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.

Place the meatballs in the crockpot, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs, making sure they’re all coated.

Cover the crockpot and cook for 3-4 hours on low heat. After 3 hours, check the meatballs for tenderness and cook for an additional 30 minutes if needed.

Once the meatballs are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the crockpot and place them on a serving platter. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or toothpicks, if desired.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place the desired number of meatballs in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the crockpot on low heat for about 30 minutes. Enjoy!