Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves! These meatballs simmer in a rich sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and heat. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a New Year’s Eve party or Game Day, they can also be served as a fulfilling meal alongside rice and veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have these meatballs ready with minimal effort.
• Flavorful Sauce: The blend of hoisin, blackberry preserves, and Gochujang creates an irresistible taste that complements the meatballs beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and let your slow cooker do the work, making entertaining stress-free.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course; they pair wonderfully with rice or can be enjoyed on their own.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 60 meatballs, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Baking sheet: Good for browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing ingredients together.

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 prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Add eggs and gently whisk until blended.
2. Combine all remaining meatball ingredients into the bowl.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into your desired meatball size and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

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

Step 4: Make the Korean Sauce

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

Step 5: Layer in Slow Cooker

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

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker:
– Cook on low heat for about 2 hours.
– Gently stir after one hour of cooking to mix flavors well.

When done, taste and adjust seasoning with additional Gochujang if desired for more heat. Keep warm until ready to serve!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a party or a family dinner, these meatballs make a delightful addition to your meal spread. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs in small skewers for easy handling at parties.
• Pair with toothpicks and a side of extra sauce for dipping.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs on a bed of steamed rice to soak in the flavors.
• Use jasmine or brown rice for added texture and nutrition.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for a colorful plate.
• Add sautéed broccoli or bok choy for a nutritious boost.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the meatballs into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
• Drizzle with additional sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

With Noodles

• Toss the meatballs with cooked noodles, such as udon or rice noodles.
• Add green onions and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

To ensure your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use lean ground beef: This helps keep the meatballs tender while reducing excess fat.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain tenderness.
• Adjust spice levels: Taste test and add more Gochujang gradually if you prefer extra heat.
• Layer sauces properly: Start with sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker; it prevents sticking and enhances flavor distribution.
• Keep warm before serving: Allowing them to rest keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pair your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs with delicious sides that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant base that absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce perfectly.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables
   An assortment of colorful veggies adds crunch and freshness to your plate.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil balances the richness of the meatballs.
4. Quinoa Pilaf
   Nutty quinoa provides a protein-packed side that pairs well with savory dishes.
5. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing adds texture and zest.
6. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks serve as perfect dippers for extra sauce while adding comfort to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs turn out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meatballs before slow cooking can result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to bake or sear them first.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality sauces or meats can affect the overall flavor. Always opt for fresh, high-quality items for the best results.
• Ignoring sauce measurements: Adding too much or too little sauce can alter the taste and texture. Follow the recipe closely for balanced flavors.
• Not stirring halfway through cooking: Failing to stir can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to gently stir the meatballs after an hour for even flavor distribution.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Cooking them too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness to ensure juicy meatballs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

To make Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, simply combine ground beef with seasonings and binders, form into balls, and cook in a sweet-spicy sauce in your slow cooker for two hours.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option while still enjoying great flavor.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

These meatballs are delicious served over rice, with steamed vegetables, or as part of a party platter with toothpicks.

How spicy are these Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

The spiciness level depends on how much Gochujang you add. For milder meatballs, use less Gochujang and taste throughout cooking.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize the spice level and pairings according to your taste. Try this easy recipe today!