Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs: 3 Amazing Steps

Update : December 20, 2025

Slow cooker honey garlic meatballs served on a plate with garnish

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs are a fantastic choice for busy days or gatherings. They are easy to prepare, require minimal effort, and are full of delicious flavors. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a tasty sauce that pairs perfectly with the meatballs. Plus, this recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a quick meal throughout the week.

how to make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 pound frozen meatballs
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions:

In a slow cooker, combine the ketchup, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
Stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve hot.

how to serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

These meatballs can be served in various ways. You can place them on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties. They also go well over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Additionally, you can serve them in a sub sandwich or on sliders for a fun twist at your next gathering.

how to store Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

After cooking, if you have leftover meatballs, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them. Place the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs

For a little spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use homemade meatballs if you prefer, but frozen ones save time.
Make sure to stir the meatballs halfway through cooking for even coating.
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer without the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

variation

You can easily swap out the meatballs for other proteins, like chicken or turkey meatballs, if desired. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli into the slow cooker for a more balanced meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs. Just reduce the cooking time by about an hour.

2. What kind of honey is best for this recipe?
Any type of honey will work well. Choose a flavor you enjoy, whether it’s clover, wildflower, or even orange blossom.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this dish.