Description
A bold, sweet and savory slow cooker dish featuring tender homemade meatballs coated in a rich honey garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
2 pounds (900 g) ground beef
1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
2 large eggs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 cup (180 ml) honey
1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons sliced green onions (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined.
Roll mixture into 1–1 1/2 inch meatballs and place on a tray.
Optional: Brown meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.
In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
Pour sauce into slow cooker and add meatballs, turning to coat.
Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
Mix cornstarch and water, stir into slow cooker during last 30 minutes, and cook until sauce thickens.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Reduce honey to 1/2 cup (120 ml) for less sweetness.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.