These easy Crockpot BBQ meatballs are a perfect mix of juicy, flavorful goodness! With just three ingredients, you’ll have a tasty dish ready with minimal fuss.
Whenever I make these, they disappear fast—like magic! 🪄 I love serving them at parties or as a quick meal. Just toss everything in the pot and relax while they cook!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Cooked Meatballs: You can use beef, pork, or turkey meatballs. I love using beef for their rich flavor, but turkey is a great low-fat option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based meatballs instead!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the best flavor. I like a sweet and smokey sauce, but feel free to experiment! For a healthier option, look for low-sugar or organic sauces.
Cola or Root Beer: Soda adds sweetness and depth. If you want to skip the sugar, try using diet soda or a sugar-free alternative. Some people even use apple cider vinegar mixed with a little honey for a tangy twist!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking meatballs in a crockpot is easy, but keeping a few tips in mind can make a difference. It’s all about even heating and flavor absorption.
- Start with frozen meatballs; there’s no need to thaw them first!
- Add the BBQ sauce before the soda to ensure a nice coating.
- Stir gently after adding soda, but don’t over-mix to avoid breaking them apart.
- Cooking on low for longer tends to make them tender and lets flavors meld better.
- Remember to stir them once or twice during the cooking to keep everything evenly distributed.
3 Ingredient Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen cooked meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 can (10 oz) cola or root beer soda
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you can let it cook in the crockpot for 2-6 hours. Depending on whether you choose to cook it on low or high, you can have delicious BBQ meatballs ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your crockpot. No need to thaw them beforehand—just pop them in!
2. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the meatballs. This will be the main flavor base, so make sure they are nicely coated.
3. Mix in the Soda:
Now, pour the can of cola or root beer over the BBQ sauce and meatballs. This bubbly addition will add a sweet kick that makes these meatballs so tasty!
4. Stir and Cover:
Gently stir the mixture to combine all ingredients and coat the meatballs well. After that, cover the crockpot with its lid.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Set your crockpot to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs are done when they are heated through and the sauce is thick and glossy. Stir once or twice during cooking to keep everything evenly coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re ready, serve the meatballs hot! You can garnish with chopped parsley if you like. They make a great appetizer or a hearty main dish. Enjoy your sweet and tangy sticky BBQ meatballs that are tender and flavorful with minimal effort!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If you use fresh meatballs, be sure to adjust the cooking time. They may only need about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Use Homemade BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce can make these meatballs even tastier. Just ensure it’s a bit sweet to balance the flavors since soda adds sweetness as well.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With BBQ Meatballs?
These meatballs pair perfectly with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes! You can also serve them on slider buns for BBQ meatball sliders. Enjoy!