Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs simmered in the most tantalizing rich sweet heat sauce that everyone goes crazy for! These meatballs are perfect for stress-free, make-ahead appetizers for New Year’s Eve or Game Day. They also serve as a delicious, easy meal when paired with rice and veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends and family.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet blackberry preserves and spicy Gochujang creates a sauce that is irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer or main dish; they fit any occasion beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance for parties or busy weeknights without hassle.
• Crowd-Pleasing Recipe: With 60 meatballs, this recipe is perfect for gatherings and will leave your guests wanting more!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing the meatballs to cook evenly while soaking in that delicious sauce.
• Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl helps mix all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Baking Sheet: Pre-baking the meatballs allows them to develop a nice texture before slow cooking.

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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 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 mixing bowl:
1. Add the eggs and gently whisk them until blended.
2. Add all remaining meatball ingredients to the bowl.
3. Mix until well combined, then roll the mixture into your desired meatball size.
4. Place meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking:
– In a medium bowl, combine all Korean sauce ingredients.
– Whisk them together until well blended.

Step 4: Layer in the Slow Cooker

• Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of Korean sauce.
• Add a layer of baked meatballs on top.
• Drizzle with some additional sauce before adding another layer of meatballs followed by more sauce.

Step 5: Cook and Serve

• Cover and cook on low heat for about 2 hours.
• Gently stir after one hour of cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Once done, taste and adjust sweetness or heat by adding more Gochujang if desired.
• Keep warm until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a family meal, these meatballs can be the star of the show. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair them with dipping sauces like extra hoisin or a spicy chili sauce for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Place the meatballs over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle some of the Korean sauce on top for extra taste.

With Noodles

• Serve alongside stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired dish.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a colorful presentation.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the meatballs and sauce for a fresh, crunchy option.
• Add julienned vegetables for extra texture and flavor.

On Sliders

• Make mini sliders using small buns, adding a meatball, some sauce, and slaw.
• These are perfect for game day or casual gatherings!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Creating the perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these pointers to ensure your meatballs turn out tender and flavorful every time.

• Choose Lean Meat: Using lean ground beef keeps your meatballs juicy without excess fat.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
• Bake Before Slow Cooking: Baking them briefly gives an initial sear that enhances flavor before they simmer in sauce.
• Adjust Spice Level: Taste the sauce before serving; add more Gochujang for extra heat if desired.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs elevate the overall taste significantly.
• Keep Warm Until Serving: Letting them sit in the slow cooker on warm maintains their tenderness until ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pairing your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement their sweet and spicy flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light side that adds crunch and balances out the richness of the meatballs.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with vegetables makes a satisfying accompaniment.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar offers a cool contrast.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spicy sauce of the meatballs.
5. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds tanginess and depth, enhancing the overall Asian theme.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed with sesame oil and seeds, these green beans provide crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring the meat mixture consistency. Make sure the meatball mixture is well combined but not overmixed. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

• Skipping the baking step. Baking meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker helps them retain their shape and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this vital step!

• Using too much sauce. While the sauce is delicious, using excessive amounts can make the dish overly soggy. Follow the recommended sauce quantities for best results.

• Not adjusting spice levels. Each Gochujang brand varies in heat level. Taste the sauce before adding all of it and adjust according to your spice preference.

• Forgetting to stir during cooking. Gentle stirring halfway through cooking ensures even coating and prevents burning on one side. Don’t forget this crucial step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer-safe bags.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative and will still yield flavorful meatballs.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

You can add more or less blackberry preserves depending on your taste preference.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

These meatballs pair nicely with rice, steamed vegetables, or even as sliders on buns!

How do I know when my meatballs are done?

They should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C).

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will impress your guests or family. With easy preparation and storage options, these versatile meatballs can be customized with different sauces or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!