Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet, and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs simmered in a rich sauce are perfect for any gathering! These meatballs are not only easy to prepare ahead of time but also transform into a delightful dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s for New Year’s Eve, Game Day, or a simple family dinner, these meatballs offer an irresistible combination of flavors that will keep your guests coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: You can easily make these meatballs ahead of time and let the slow cooker do all the work.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet blackberry preserves and spicy Gochujang creates an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, or pair with rice and veggies for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 60 meatballs per batch, they are ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean ground beef and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Below are essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This gadget allows you to cook the meatballs slowly, enhancing their flavor while making them tender.
• Baking sheet: Pre-baking the meatballs helps achieve a deliciously browned exterior before they go into the slow cooker.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures you have enough space to combine all ingredients without mess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these flavorful Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 22 saltine crackers, crushed (approx. 1 cup)
• 1/3 cup dry minced onion
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 tsp EACH salt, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Korean Sauce

• 1 10 oz. jar seedless blackberry preserves (1 cup)
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons Gochujang
• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp EACH ginger powder, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil to make clean-up easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the eggs and gently whisk until combined.
2. Incorporate all remaining meatball ingredients into the bowl.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into desired meatball sizes.
5. Place meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 3: Prepare the Korean Sauce

While the meatballs are baking:
1. In another mixing bowl, add all Korean sauce ingredients.
2. Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 4: Layer in Slow Cooker

Once the meatballs have baked:
1. Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of Korean sauce.
2. Add a layer of meatballs on top.
3. Drizzle some more sauce over this layer.
4. Repeat with remaining meatballs followed by any leftover sauce.

Step 5: Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 2 hours:
1. Gently stir after one hour to mix flavors well.
2. Taste when done; add more Gochujang if desired for extra heat.
3. Keep warm until serving.

Enjoy serving your delicious Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs at your next event!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you need a hearty meal or a fun appetizer, these meatballs will please everyone at your table.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs in small portions with toothpicks for easy snacking during parties or gatherings.

With Rice

• Pair the meatballs with fluffy white or brown rice to create a satisfying meal that balances the sweet and spicy flavors.

Inside Sliders

• Place meatballs on slider buns with a drizzle of sauce for a delicious mini sandwich that’s perfect for game day.

On Noodles

• Toss cooked noodles, like rice noodles or soba, with some of the Korean sauce and top with the meatballs for a flavorful dish.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy to add color and nutrition to your plate.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Offer lettuce leaves to wrap around the meatballs for a fun, fresh twist that’s both tasty and low-carb.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality sauces will elevate the flavor profile.
• Adjust spice levels: Taste the sauce before serving and add more Gochujang if you prefer extra heat.
• Shape uniformly: Roll meatballs into similar sizes for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Don’t overcrowd: Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the slow cooker to ensure they cook evenly without steaming each other.
• Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit for a few minutes after cooking for better flavor absorption.
• Experiment with toppings: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

To complement your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, here are some delightful side dishes that will enhance your meal experience.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant choice that absorbs the sweet heat of the sauce beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Vegetables
   Bright vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas add crunch and color.

3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing side of sliced cucumbers mixed with vinegar and sesame oil balances the rich flavors.

4. Kimchi Fried Rice
   Leftover rice stir-fried with kimchi adds a spicy kick that pairs well with the meatballs.

5. Miso Soup
   A light soup made from miso paste adds warmth and complements the hearty meatball dish nicely.

6. Quinoa Salad
   Nutty quinoa mixed with diced vegetables creates a protein-packed side that is both healthy and filling.

7. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the spicy flavors of the meatballs.

8. Asian Slaw
   Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds freshness and texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making slow cooker Korean meatballs can be delightful, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Boldly skip the browning step: Many people overlook the importance of browning meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor through caramelization, so don’t skip it!

• Boldly ignore ingredient measurements: Using incorrect ingredient amounts can throw off the dish’s balance. Always measure your ingredients precisely for the best outcome.

• Boldly overcrowd the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation by cooking in batches if necessary.

• Boldly choose low-quality sauces: Not all sauces are created equal. Opt for high-quality hoisin sauce and fresh ingredients to elevate the flavors of your meatballs.

• Boldly forget to taste: After cooking, always taste your meatballs and sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure they are perfectly balanced before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place meatballs on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs:

How do I make Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs spicy?

To increase the spice level, add more Gochujang to your sauce mixture before cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still yield delicious results while being slightly lighter.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice or noodles and a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

Cooking on low heat takes approximately 2 hours. For best results, stir gently halfway through cooking.

Can I use other fruits besides blackberries for the sauce?

Absolutely! Experiment with different fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry for unique flavor profiles in your sauce.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various meats and sauces based on your preferences. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these flavorful meatballs are sure to impress at any gathering. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors!