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Slow cooker teriyaki meatballs in a savory sauce served on a plate

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Enjoy delicious, juicy meatballs coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for a family-friendly meal or party appetizer!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 2 pounds frozen fully-cooked meatballs Available in most grocery stores.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce Use low-sodium to control saltiness.
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar Packed.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger Grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger).
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Or use apple cider vinegar.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Plus 2 tablespoons water for slurry.
  • 2 tablespoons honey Optional, for extra sweetness.
For Garnish
  • Sesame seeds For garnish.
  • Chopped green onions For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, vinegar, and add honey if desired.
  2. Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them. Gently stir to coat.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, stirring halfway through.
  2. About 30 minutes before serving, mix together cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and stir. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
Serving
  1. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy over steamed rice, noodles, or as appetizers!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or slow cooker.