Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs – Easy Homemade Recipe

Looking for a flavorful appetizer or a crowd-pleasing dinner idea? These Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a sweet-savory homemade teriyaki sauce. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making this recipe a fuss-free option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party snacks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Ground beef

• Breadcrumbs

• Milk

• Egg

• Minced garlic

• Black pepper

Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them directly into your slow cooker in a single layer.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Honey

• Rice vinegar

• Grated ginger

• Cornstarch + water (this creates a slurry to thicken the sauce)

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs to coat them well in the glossy teriyaki sauce.
Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Variations & Tips

• Healthier Protein Options: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.

• Hidden Veggies: Add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat mixture for added nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Stir in 1 teaspoon sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

• Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the meatballs (without sauce). Reheat them later in teriyaki sauce for a quick meal.

Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Hands-off cooking – the slow cooker does all the work.Versatile dish – serve as an appetizer, over rice, or with noodles.
Family-friendly – a balance of sweet and savory flavors that everyone enjoys.
Customizable – easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty meal.

• Pair with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced plate.

• Add to noodles for a quick and delicious teriyaki noodle bowl.

• Offer as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

 These Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience. Juicy meatballs slow-cooked in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce will make everyone ask for seconds!

enjoy!