Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Tender juicy, sweet and spicy Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs simmered in a rich and tantalizing sauce are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Perfect for game day or as a make-ahead appetizer for New Year’s Eve, these meatballs will impress your guests while being easy to prepare. Their unique blend of flavors ensures that there’s something for everyone, making them an excellent addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply mix the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work, allowing you time to enjoy with family and friends.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet blackberry preserves and spicy Gochujang creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer or over rice with veggies for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and keep warm until serving, making it ideal for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious meatballs come together seamlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring tender meatballs infused with flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess, enabling efficient preparation.
• Baking sheet: Provides a surface to brown meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing texture.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need 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 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

Follow these steps to create mouth-watering Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs that everyone will love.

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:
1. Add eggs and gently whisk until blended.
2. Incorporate all remaining meatball ingredients into the bowl.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Roll the mixture into your desired meatball size.
5. Place meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs bake:
1. In a medium bowl, combine all Korean sauce ingredients.
2. Whisk until smooth and well mixed.

Step 4: Layer in Slow Cooker

Once meatballs are baked:
1. Line the bottom of your slow cooker with a thin layer of the sauce.
2. Add a layer of baked meatballs on top.
3. Drizzle some additional sauce over this layer.
4. Repeat with remaining meatballs and finish with more sauce on top.

Step 5: Cook and Serve

Cover your slow cooker:
1. Cook on low heat for about 2 hours.
2. Gently stir after one hour of cooking.
3. Taste and adjust spice level by adding more Gochujang if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy these delightful Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs at your next gathering!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a family meal, these meatballs will surely impress your guests and loved ones.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them on toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
• Pair with mini cups of the sweet heat sauce for dipping.

Over Rice

• Spoon the meatballs over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra sauce on top for added flavor.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to add freshness.
• Toss the veggies in the sauce before serving for a cohesive dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with meatballs and crunchy vegetables.
• Add sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish.

On a Sub Roll

• Place meatballs in a toasted sub roll and top with pickled vegetables.
• Melt cheese on top for a delicious twist that’s great for lunch.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

To achieve the perfect Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, follow these helpful tips. These suggestions will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Choose lean meat – Opting for lean ground beef helps keep meatballs tender without excess fat.
• Don’t overmix – Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs; combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the flavor compared to dried versions.
• Adjust spice levels – Tailor the amount of Gochujang to your taste preference for sweetness and heat.
• Let them rest – Allowing meatballs to sit in the sauce after cooking helps them absorb more flavor.
• Experiment with toppings – Consider garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

Pair your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs with these delightful side dishes. Each option complements their sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables – Colorful veggies like bell peppers and carrots add crunch and nutrition.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad balances the richness of the meatballs with its crispness.
4. Kimchi – This fermented dish adds tanginess and depth, enhancing your meal’s overall profile.
5. Quinoa – A nutritious alternative to rice that offers a nutty flavor alongside the meatballs.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy sauce.
7. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
8. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings freshness and zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs turn out perfect every time.

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients just until blended for tender meatballs.
• Skipping browning: Not browning the meatballs before slow cooking can lead to less flavor. Bake them first for an enhanced taste.
• Ignoring sauce proportions: Using too little sauce can dry out the meatballs. Ensure you have enough sauce to coat and flavor them well.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, be mindful of Gochujang amounts. Start small and gradually add more to suit your taste.
• Cooking on high temperature: Cooking on high may lead to uneven cooking. Always opt for low heat for tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container, covering loosely. Heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs that might help you out.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for lean beef in this recipe. It will yield different flavors but remains delicious.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

To adjust the sweetness, simply add more or less blackberry preserves according to your preference. Taste as you go!

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables or can be served as an appetizer at gatherings.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free compatible for a tasty alternative.

Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs are a fantastic choice for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Whether as an appetizer or part of a meal with rice and veggies, they can easily be customized with different sauces or spices to suit your taste preferences. Try making them today!

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Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Korean Meatballs, an irresistible dish that combines sweet and spicy elements for a memorable culinary experience. These tender meatballs are crafted with lean ground beef and simmered in a luscious sauce featuring blackberry preserves and Gochujang, creating an explosion of taste that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether served as an appetizer or over rice with veggies for a hearty meal, they are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy days or festive occasions. Enjoy the make-ahead convenience and let your slow cooker do the magic while you focus on entertaining your guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 10 oz. jar seedless blackberry preserves
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and add remaining meatball ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Form mixture into meatballs and place on the baking sheet. Bake for about 8 minutes until lightly browned.
4. While meatballs bake, combine sauce ingredients in a bowl; whisk until smooth.
5. Layer some sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker, add baked meatballs, drizzle more sauce on top, and repeat layers.
6. Cook on low for about 2 hours; stir gently after one hour.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 80mg