Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure? These Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are about to become your new obsession! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this Asian-inspired dish proves that delicious meals don't have to be complicated.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (for glazing)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 1-
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create around 16-20 meatballs depending on size preference.
- Lightly spray the interior of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the formed meatballs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of teriyaki sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure each meatball is coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, allowing the meatballs to become tender and absorb the teriyaki sauce.
- After cooking time is complete, gently stir the meatballs to ensure even coating with sauce.
- Optional: For a glossier finish, brush additional teriyaki sauce on meatballs before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions, over steamed rice or with your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Mix the meat mixture gently: Overmixing can make your meatballs tough, so combine ingredients just until they're incorporated.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh minced garlic and ginger will give your meatballs a more vibrant flavor compared to dried or pre-packaged versions.
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Arrange meatballs in a single layer to ensure even cooking and proper sauce distribution.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the meat mixture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with the final teriyaki sauce before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
