Name: Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; ½ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup milk; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup barbecue sauce; ¼ cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate party or weeknight crowd-pleaser, these Crockpot BBQ Meatballs are a must-try. They're irresistibly juicy, smothered in a tangy, sweet, homemade barbecue sauce, and couldn't be easier to whip up. This dish is perfect for potlucks, game days, family gatherings, or whenever you need a hassle-free dinner that everyone will love. Smells amazing, tastes even better—let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply mix, scoop, and let your Crockpot do the work—minimal hands-on time!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a hearty appetizer, easy dinner, or party snack everyone will devour.
Incredible Flavor: Juicy meatballs get slowly simmered in smoky, sweet BBQ sauce for next-level deliciousness.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prep ahead and keep warm for hours, making entertaining stress-free.
Kid-Approved: The perfect balance of sweet and savory—picky eaters love these meatballs!

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
½ cup finely diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

Step 1: Make The Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined—avoid over-mixing.

Step 2: Form The Meatballs

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, roll the meat into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. You should yield about 32-36 meatballs.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot

Spray the inside of your Crockpot with nonstick spray. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer (a second layer is fine if needed).
In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours, until meatballs reach at least 160°F and are cooked through.
Gently stir halfway through to coat each meatball in sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Switch Crockpot to warm and serve directly or transfer to a platter with extra sauce spooned over the top.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes (or 2 hours 15 minutes on high)

Notes

For uniform meatballs, use a cookie scoop and dampen your hands to prevent sticking.
You can pre-brown the meatballs in a skillet for more flavor, but it's totally optional and not necessary for this recipe.
Double the recipe and freeze half—these meatballs freeze beautifully, cooked or uncooked!

Variations

Turkey BBQ Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter version.
Sweet & Spicy Meatballs: Add 2 tablespoons sriracha or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Keto-Friendly: Use pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for low carb.

Required Equipment

6-quart Crockpot or slow cooker
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Cutting board and knife

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Crockpot BBQ Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the microwave or a saucepan over medium heat until hot throughout.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks at parties.
Pile onto soft sandwich rolls for delicious BBQ meatball subs.
Pair with creamy coleslaw, potato salad, or classic mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty dinner.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

Don’t over-mix the meatball mixture—mix just until incorporated for tender, juicy meatballs.
For even cooking, keep meatballs similar in size and don’t overcrowd the Crockpot.
Use your favorite barbecue sauce for custom flavor—smoky, spicy, or sweet!

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?: Yes! Simply add frozen store-bought meatballs to the Crockpot and follow the same sauce instructions. Cook on low for 4 hours or until heated through and saucy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?: Absolutely! Assemble meatballs and sauce the night before—store in the refrigerator, then cook as directed when ready.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F, and ensure they’re cooked through—no pink inside.