These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with the sweet stickiness of honey. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a flavorful sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless and Convenient: The slow cooker does all the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days or gatherings.
Sweet and Spicy Balance: The combination of honey and buffalo sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy.
Tender and Juicy Meatballs: The slow cooking process ensures that the meatballs are cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.
Versatile Dish: These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or main course.

Ingredients

Frozen Meatballs: Provides the convenience of a ready-to-use protein source.
Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce: Adds the signature tangy heat of buffalo sauce. (You can also use other hot sauces, but Frank’s is a classic choice.)
Honey: Sweetens the sauce and creates a sticky, glaze-like consistency.
Apricot Preserves: Contributes a fruity sweetness and enhances the glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the sauce.
Soy Sauce: Provides a savory, umami depth that balances the sweetness and heat.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, creating a glossy and smooth texture.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking. Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce, honey, apricot preserves, brown sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a smooth and flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir to coat the meatballs well with the sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours, stirring periodically. This allows the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook thoroughly.

Step 4: Serve

When the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened, they are ready to serve. Serve them fresh or keep them warm in the slow cooker until ready to serve.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Meatball Variety: You can use different types of frozen meatballs, such as beef, turkey, or Italian-style.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce to control the spice level. Add more for a spicier sauce or less for a milder version.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Fresh Garlic: For a richer flavor, add minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce.

How to Serve

Appetizer: Serve the meatballs with toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
Main Course: Serve the meatballs over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
Sandwiches: Use the meatballs as a filling for sandwiches or sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs gently in the slow cooker, microwave, or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh meatballs. Brown them in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker to enhance their flavor.

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker. Place the ingredients in the pressure cooker, seal, and cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes. Release the pressure according to your pressure cooker’s instructions.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the slow cooker along with the meatballs for added flavor and variety.

What dipping sauces go well with these meatballs?

Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a creamy sriracha sauce are all excellent dipping options.