why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are a fantastic choice for a quick and easy meal that packs a punch of flavor. Using frozen cooked meatballs simplifies the preparation process, making this dish great for busy nights. The teriyaki sauce combined with sweet pineapple and a kick of chili garlic sauce creates a delicious balance that everyone will love. Plus, it cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal comes together.

how to make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Ingredients:

26 ounces frozen cooked meatballs (1 bag, 52-count for protein)
21 ounces teriyaki sauce or marinade (for flavor)
20 ounces canned pineapple tidbits, drained (for sweetness and texture)
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (for spice)
Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

In the crockpot, combine the meatballs, teriyaki sauce, drained pineapple tidbits, and chili garlic sauce. Toss everything to coat the meatballs evenly.
Cook on low for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving, if desired.

how to serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Serve the Teriyaki Meatballs over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. They make a great appetizer by themselves or can be served on a platter for game day gatherings. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra green onions and sesame seeds on top for a nice touch.

how to store Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, place the meatballs in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

tips to make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili garlic sauce based on your taste.
For a thicker sauce, just cook it on high for a shorter period towards the end of the cooking time.
Experiment with adding vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

variation

You can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free teriyaki sauce. For a healthier version, consider using turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade meatballs! Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

How spicy are these meatballs?
The spiciness comes from the chili garlic sauce. You can adjust this to your preference or leave it out entirely for a mild dish.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough to handle the extra ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.