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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Deliciously savory teriyaki meatballs cooked in a slow cooker, offering a simple and customizable meal option for family dinners or parties.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Japanese
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated) or 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional) for extra sweetness

For the Meatballs

  • 2 pounds frozen fully-cooked meatballs
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch for slurry
  • 2 tablespoons water for slurry
  • sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, and honey if you are using it.
  • Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top and stir to coat the meatballs.

Cooking

  • Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours. Stir halfway through to ensure the meatballs are well coated.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, mix together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and stir. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and clings to the meatballs.

Serving

  • Garnish the meatballs with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. They can be served over steamed rice, noodles, or as a tasty party appetizer.

Notes

You can use homemade meatballs if you prefer. Adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or honey in the sauce. For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add extra cornstarch slurry in the last few minutes of cooking. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Keyword Comfort Food, easy dinner, Party Recipes, Slow Cooker Recipes, Teriyaki Meatballs