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Slow Cooker Cheddar BBQ Meatballs

Irresistibly Easy Slow Cooker Cheddar BBQ Meatballs

These Slow Cooker Cheddar BBQ Meatballs are a cheesy, smoky delight perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed
  • 1 Egg can use a flaxseed egg for a vegan alternative
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder fresh diced onion can be used for added flavor
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic is an alternative
  • to taste Salt & Pepper adjust to personal preference
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese swap for dairy-free cheese if needed
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce opt for homemade to control flavors
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce soy sauce can be used as a substitute
For Serving (Optional)
  • to taste Fresh Herbs such as parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • to serve Creamy Mashed Potatoes pairs wonderfully with BBQ meatballs

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Mixing Bowl
  • skillet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the sharp cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.
  2. For an extra layer of flavor, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sear the meatballs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and golden brown. This step is optional.
  3. Transfer the formed meatballs to the slow cooker. Drizzle BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated. Gently stir to mix everything without breaking the meatballs.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. Monitor to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful.
  5. Once cooked, carefully stir the meatballs in the sauce to coat them fully, then serve hot. Enjoy with creamy mashed potatoes or on slider buns.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Keep meatballs tender by mixing ingredients just until combined. Refrigerate formed meatballs a day in advance for convenience.

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