Why Make This Recipe
Crock Pot Party Meatballs are perfect for any gathering or celebration. They are easy to prepare and can cook while you focus on other tasks. These meatballs are flavorful, sweet, and a little spicy, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they are great for potlucks, game days, or even just a cozy family dinner.
How to Make Crock Pot Party Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 (2 pound) bag frozen cooked meatballs
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (12 ounce) bottle tomato-based chili sauce
- 0.5 lemon, juiced
- 2 drops hot sauce (such as Tabasco®, or more to taste)
Directions:
- Place the meatballs, cranberry sauce, chili sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a slow cooker; stir to evenly distribute the sauce.
- Cook on High until the meatballs are completely thawed and hot, which will take about 3 hours.
How to Serve Crock Pot Party Meatballs
These meatballs can be served straight from the slow cooker, keeping them warm and ready for guests. Use toothpicks for easy serving, or spoon them over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They also make a tasty filling for sliders, allowing everyone to make their own mini sandwiches.
How to Store Crock Pot Party Meatballs
If you have leftovers, let the meatballs cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Party Meatballs
- You can experiment with different types of hot sauce to adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Add chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a little cornstarch dissolved in water during the last hour of cooking.
Variation
For a tangier flavor, you can add barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce. You can also mix in some pineapple chunks for a sweet and sour twist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs, but you will need to adjust the cooking time based on their size. Make sure they are cooked through before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. Just plug in your slow cooker and cook them when you’re ready.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Make sure to check the labels on the cranberry sauce and chili sauce to ensure they are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
