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Delicious slow cooker teriyaki meatballs served in a bowl

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Delicious slow cooker teriyaki meatballs that are sweet, tangy, and perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds frozen fully-cooked meatballs
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated, or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and honey if using.
  2. Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs and gently stir to ensure they’re well coated.
  3. Cover and set the slow cooker to Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours. Stir halfway through cooking for even flavor distribution.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, mix together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour it into the slow cooker and stir well.
  5. Once thickened, garnish the meatballs with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over rice, noodles, or as appetizers.

Notes

Cooking the meatballs straight from frozen ensures they stay juicy and flavorful. Adjust sweetness with brown sugar and honey based on preference. If serving at a party, switch to the warm setting after cooking.