These Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs are juicy, tangy, and oh-so-easy to make! Just toss them in your slow cooker with a tasty bourbon sauce and let them cook until perfect.
Seriously, who wouldn’t want a dish that cooks itself while you relax? I love serving these at parties—watch out, they’ll disappear fast! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use either beef or turkey meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken meatballs work great too! If you want, you can even make homemade meatballs for a personal touch.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a unique flavor, but if you prefer non-alcoholic options, you can swap it with apple cider vinegar or a splash of soy sauce for a similar depth.
Barbecue Sauce: Any barbecue sauce you love will do! If you’re keeping an eye on sugar, consider using a sugar-free version or making your own to control the sweetness.
Brown Sugar: If you run out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a touch of molasses to get that rich flavor. Also, coconut sugar is a great alternative for those wanting a less processed option.
Fresh Parsley: Don’t have parsley? Chopped green onions or cilantro can also add a fresh touch. Use what you have on hand!
How Do I Ensure the Meatballs Cook Evenly in the Crock Pot?
Cooking meatballs in a Crock Pot is super convenient, but ensuring they cook evenly is key. Here’s how:
- Start by placing frozen meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the Crock Pot. This helps them heat evenly.
- Make sure to coat them well with your sauce mixture. This not only flavors them but also prevents drying out.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to redistribute the sauce and keep all meatballs moist.
- Always check the internal temperature; make sure they reach at least 165°F for safe eating.
Slow cooking at low heat does wonders, so don’t rush! The longer cooking time lets all the flavors mingle beautifully.
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef or turkey)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup bourbon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let the Crock Pot do the work! Cook time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In it, mix together the barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and set aside.
2. Add the Meatballs:
Now, take your Crock Pot and place the frozen meatballs in it. No need to thaw them; they’ll cook perfectly from frozen!
3. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs, making sure they are all evenly coated. This is where the magic begins, so give it a good shake if needed to ensure they’re covered!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock Pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re around, stir the meatballs occasionally to keep them coated in the scrumptious sauce. Just let it simmer and fill your kitchen with a fantastic aroma!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the meatballs are cooked through and tender, you’re almost ready to eat! Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the meatballs for a lovely pop of color and added flavor.
6. Serving Suggestions:
Serve the meatballs hot as an appetizer on toothpicks for dipping, or over a bed of rice for a hearty main dish. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs! Just reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, as fresh meatballs cook faster than frozen ones. Make sure they are fully cooked through before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
If bourbon isn’t available, you can substitute it with whiskey, rum, or even a non-alcoholic option like apple cider or chicken broth for some added flavor. The sweetness will be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the microwave or stovetop.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, you can include a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste, depending on how spicy you want it!
