Ingredients for Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 preferred): The foundation of these irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs. Choose 80/20 for flavor without excessive grease.
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs: Essential binder that helps the meatballs hold their shape and absorb moisture, keeping them tender. Panko also works beautifully for texture.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a crucial binder, ensuring the meatballs stay together and adding richness. Use a room temperature egg for better incorporation.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the meatballs, infusing them with savory depth. Mince it very fine for best texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent aromatic that is absolutely essential for savory depth in both the meatballs and the sauce. Freshly mince, don’t use jarred.
• 1 cup ketchup: Forms the sweet and tangy base of our signature bourbon glaze, providing a rich, familiar flavor. Use your favorite quality brand for best results.
• 1/2 cup good quality bourbon: The star ingredient, infusing the glaze with its distinct caramel and oak notes, creating that irresistible flavor. Don’t substitute or skip!
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides the sticky sweetness that makes the glaze so addictive, balancing the savory and tangy notes. Pack it tightly for accurate measurement.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred): Adds a vital umami depth and savory complexity to the sauce, enhancing all the other flavors. Low sodium helps control overall saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang and sharp kick, cutting through the richness of the sauce and adding sophisticated flavor. French’s or Grey Poupon are excellent choices.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brightens the entire sauce, providing a crucial acidic balance to the sweetness and richness. Bragg’s is a great option for its quality.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Absolutely essential for seasoning the meatballs and balancing the flavors in the sauce. Adjust to your preference, tasting as you go.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, earthy spice that complements the other flavors beautifully. Freshly ground pepper offers the best aroma and taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a subtle warmth and a gentle kick, elevating the flavor profile without making it overly spicy. Add more for extra heat.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a vibrant pop of color and fresh herbaceousness, perfect for garnishing the finished dish. Flat-leaf parsley is ideal here.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds a delicate nutty flavor and appealing visual texture, making these delicious Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs look even more inviting. Toast lightly for extra flavor.

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs

Mix Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep them tender. This is the base for your delicious Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs.

Form Meatballs:

Roll the meat mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs. This usually yields about 40-50 delicious meatballs. Arrange them on a plate or baking sheet, ready for the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.

Whisk Sauce:

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until completely smooth. This creates the signature sticky glaze for your Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs.

Slow Cook:

Carefully place the formed meatballs into your slow cooker. Pour the rich bourbon sauce evenly over them, ensuring each meatball is coated. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until tender.

Glaze & Heat:

Stir the Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs gently to ensure even coating in the thickened sauce. Continue cooking for another 15-30 minutes if you prefer a thicker glaze. The meatballs should be perfectly cooked through.

Garnish & Serve:

Once ready, transfer the Irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy enjoyment!

How to Store Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs

To store leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. They will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave them out too long, as I once did, leading to disappointment and wasted food! Look for any off smells or sliminess, which indicate spoilage.

You can prep the meatballs ahead of time by rolling them and storing them uncooked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Whisk the sauce just before cooking for the best flavor.

For reheating, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs

For effortless entertaining, serve these Irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs warm directly from the slow cooker, offering toothpicks for easy enjoyment. They are perfect as a standalone appetizer, or you can pair them with soft dinner rolls or a side of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that incredible glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.

My personal favorite way to serve them is over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice beautifully soaks up the rich, sticky bourbon sauce, making it a satisfying mini-meal. It’s a truly comforting combination to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these Irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs without using alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with an equal amount of non-alcoholic alternatives like apple juice, apple cider, or even beef broth. The flavor won’t be identical, but it will still provide a delicious sweet and savory glaze. I’ve found apple cider works best.

→ How do I freeze cooked Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs for later enjoyment?

To freeze, let the cooked meatballs cool completely, then transfer them with the sauce to an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop.

→ Why do my Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs turn out tough and rubbery sometimes?

Tough meatballs usually result from overmixing the ground beef mixture. Mix gently until just combined; avoid compacting the meat. Also, ensure you don’t overcook them on too high heat for too long. Low and slow is key for tender results.

→ Can I make these Irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs gluten-free easily?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or an equal amount of crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure your soy sauce is also gluten-free (tamari is a great option). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long do leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs stay fresh in the fridge?

Leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Meatballs will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always refrigerate them promptly after serving. If they develop any off smells or sliminess, it’s best to discard them to be safe.