Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs with Sweet Baked Beans

Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs with Sweet Baked Beans

This slow cooker BBQ meatballs recipe is the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself. With tender meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce alongside baked beans, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Simply prepare the meatballs in the morning, set your slow cooker, and come home to a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cans baked beans, about 28 ounces total
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Roll mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have about 24 to 30 meatballs.
3. In your slow cooker, combine baked beans, BBQ sauce, brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
4. Gently add meatballs to the slow cooker and stir to coat with sauce.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through.
6. Stir gently halfway through cooking if possible.
7. Serve warm in a bowl or over rice.

Practical Tips

Brown the meatballs first: For extra flavor and texture, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds a nice caramelized exterior.

Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix gently and just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough and dense rather than tender and juicy.

Stir halfway through: If you have time, gently stir the meatballs and sauce halfway through cooking to ensure even coating and consistent cooking throughout.

How to Store

Store leftover meatballs and beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Common Questions

Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or pork work well in this recipe. You may want to add a bit more seasoning since these meats are milder than beef.

What can I serve this with? These meatballs are delicious served over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve them in bowls as a hearty stew-like dish or on toasted buns for sandwiches.

Can I make this on high heat? Yes, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours instead of low for 6 to 8 hours. The meatballs will cook faster, but low and slow gives you more tender results.