Name: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 lbs frozen fully-cooked meatballs; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Sesame seeds for garnish; Sliced green onions for garnish

Tender, juicy meatballs drenched in sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is the definition of fuss-free comfort food that works for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and game day spreads alike.

The best part? These teriyaki meatballs come together with minimal prep thanks to your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re using homemade or store-bought meatballs, this recipe transforms them into something irresistibly savory and glossy with the help of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar.

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can use homemade meatballs if you want total control over flavor, but frozen pre-cooked meatballs work wonderfully here. Look for beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs without strong Italian seasoning to let the teriyaki sauce shine.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

2 lbs frozen fully-cooked meatballs
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

How To Make the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until combined.

Step 2: Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the meatballs in your slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top and toss gently to coat the meatballs evenly.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Stir halfway through if possible.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water together. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 20 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the sauce is thickened and glossy, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Teriyaki Meatballs

These meatballs are versatile! Serve them over steamed rice, lo mein noodles, or tucked into a bao bun for an Asian-inspired twist. For a party appetizer, keep them warm in the slow cooker with toothpicks nearby.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! If you have the time, homemade meatballs can make this dish even more flavorful. Just be sure to pre-cook them before adding to the slow cooker.

Can I double this recipe for a party?

Absolutely. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the quantity, and stir occasionally so the sauce evenly coats everything.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this version is more sweet and savory. Feel free to add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.

What vegetables go well with these meatballs?

Steamed broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers pair beautifully with the teriyaki flavor. You can also stir-fry some veggies and serve them alongside.

Can I cook it faster on the stovetop?

Yes, combine everything in a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sauce thickens.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If these sweet-savory teriyaki meatballs hit the spot, you’ll love these crowd-pleasing favorites too:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest party food board so you can always come back to it.

And let me know how your batch turned out! Did you use turkey meatballs or beef? Add a little heat or keep it sweet?

Your take on these teriyaki meatballs might inspire someone else’s perfect version. Share your twist, ask questions, or just say hi!

Explore more delicious ideas on my Pinterest @ Nina Dishes

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are a sweet, savory, and sticky crowd-pleaser—perfect as a hearty dinner or party appetizer. Juicy meatballs are slow simmered in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce, all with minimal prep and big flavor.