Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs simmered in a tantalizing rich sweet heat sauce are perfect for any occasion. From New Year’s Eve parties to Game Day gatherings, these meatballs are a hit. Their unique blend of flavors and easy preparation make them an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining or a simple family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Simply mix the ingredients, roll into balls, and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of hoisin sauce, Gochujang, and blackberry preserves creates a mouthwatering sauce that balances sweetness and heat.
• Versatile serving options: These meatballs can be served as appetizers, over rice, or alongside veggies for a complete meal.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook—perfect for busy days.
• Crowd-pleaser: With 60 meatballs per batch, they’re ideal for parties or gatherings where you want to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking; just set it and forget it while flavors meld beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Baking sheet: Useful for browning the meatballs before slow cooking to enhance their flavor profile.

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Ingredients

To create your delicious 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 and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, add eggs and gently whisk them. Then add all remaining meatball ingredients and mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into your desired meatball size. Place these meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until they are lightly browned.

Step 4: Make the Korean Sauce

While the meatballs bake, combine all Korean sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 5: Layer in Slow Cooker

Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of Korean sauce. Add one layer of baked meatballs, drizzle with some additional sauce, then add remaining meatballs topped with more sauce.

Step 6: Cook on Low Heat

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for approximately 2 hours. Stir gently after one hour of cooking. Taste when done and adjust seasoning by adding more Gochujang if you desire extra sweet heat. Keep warm until serving.

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs! They’re sure to delight everyone at your table!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways that elevate their flavors and make them suitable for different occasions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings. Pair with extra Korean sauce for dipping.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs over a bed of steamed rice. The sauce soaks into the rice, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the meatballs along with some shredded carrots and cucumbers. This adds a refreshing crunch and is perfect for a lighter meal.

On Sliders

• Create mouthwatering sliders by placing the meatballs in small buns. Top with pickled vegetables for an extra zing.

With Noodles

• Serve the meatballs alongside cooked noodles tossed in sesame oil and vegetables. This makes for a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

To achieve the best results when making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing lean ground beef helps keep the meatballs tender while reducing excess grease.
• Don’t skip browning: Browning the meatballs in the oven before slow cooking adds flavor and improves texture.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more blackberry preserves or honey to taste.
• Experiment with spices: Adding extra spices like crushed red pepper can enhance the heat level based on your preference.
• Gently stir during cooking: Stirring gently after one hour ensures even coating of sauce without breaking up the meatballs.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pair your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs with these delightful sides to create a complete meal experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple yet nutritious side that complements the rich flavors of the meatballs beautifully.
2. Cucumber Salad
   Refreshing and crunchy cucumber salad balances the heat of the meatballs, providing a light contrast.
3. Fried Rice
   Fried rice packed with vegetables makes for a filling side that absorbs all the delicious sauce from the meatballs.
4. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy sweet potato mash adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the spicy flavors of the dish.
5. Quinoa Pilaf
   Nutty quinoa pilaf is not only healthy but also offers a nice texture to complement your meal.
6. Asian Slaw
   A tangy Asian slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides crunch and freshness, cutting through the richness of the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Flavor Choices: Using bland or low-quality ingredients can lead to tasteless meatballs. Always choose fresh, high-quality materials for the best flavor.
• Bold Mixing Too Much: Over-mixing the meatball mixture can make them tough. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Bold Ignoring Cooking Times: Not following the slow cooker times can result in undercooked or overcooked meatballs. Stick to the suggested cooking times for perfect results.
• Bold Skipping the Sauce Layering: Skipping layers of sauce can prevent flavor infusion. Layering helps the meatballs soak up that delicious sauce.
• Bold Neglecting Taste Test: Forgetting to taste and adjust flavors before serving may lead to disappointment. Always taste and tweak seasoning towards the end.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in increments of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

It takes approximately 30 minutes of preparation time and 2 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still yield delicious results.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or change up the sauces according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are not just flavorful but also versatile. They work wonderfully as appetizers for gatherings or as a main dish served with rice. Customize them by adding different spices or adjusting the heat level according to your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors!