If you are on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, then the Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish brings together juicy meatballs and savory Lil Smokies sausages bathed in a luscious mix of teriyaki and barbecue sauces, all slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a finger-licking, irresistible appetizer or snack that feels like a warm hug at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial part in crafting that perfect balance of flavor and texture in the Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe. From the hearty meatballs to the flavorful sauces, everything works together to make your slow cooker magic happen effortlessly.
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (homestyle): They provide a tender, meaty base that soaks up all the delicious sauces beautifully.
- 14 oz package Lit’l Smokies sausages: Adds a smoky bite and festive touch to the mix with their small size and savory flavor.
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce: Brings a tangy, smoky richness that complements the meat perfectly.
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Sweet Teriyaki Sauce: Infuses a sweet, slightly savory glaze that adds depth and a glossy finish.
How to Make Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Meat
Start by placing your frozen meatballs and the entire package of Lil Smokies straight into your slow cooker. This no-fuss approach saves time and ensures that the flavors meld deliciously without any extra prep.
Step 2: Add the Sauces
Pour in the Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce and Sweet Teriyaki Sauce over the meatballs and Lil Smokies. Give everything a good stir so every bite gets coated with that rich, tangy, and sweet blend of sauces.
Step 3: Set and Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker, and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours. The slow heat allows the flavors to mingle deeply and the meatballs and sausages to become tender and juicy. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep the sauce evenly distributed.
Step 4: Ready to Serve
Once cooked to perfection, serve these mouthwatering treats straight from your Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe slow cooker to keep them warm. You can also transfer them to a platter and pop in some toothpicks for a fun, easy-to-eat appetizer presentation.
How to Serve Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds adds a fresh, vibrant crunch and a pop of color that makes these meatballs and smokies look even more irresistible. A dash of red pepper flakes is great if you want just a little heat to contrast the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light and crisp sides like coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad that balances the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or steamed jasmine rice to soak up every last drop of that savory-teriyaki sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering the meatballs and Lil Smokies alternately for a festive party platter that’s easy to grab and go. You can also layer them over toasted baguette slices or in slider buns for a fun twist on sliders with a sweet and smoky flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe has been enjoyed, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 to 4 days, making for a convenient ready-to-eat snack or quick meal addition.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Simply transfer leftovers to a freezer-safe container or bag, seal well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want a quick snack or meal, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with ease.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through and bubbly. Alternatively, the microwave works fine; just cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work just as well and can add a personal touch. Just be sure they are fully cooked before adding to the crockpot with the Lil Smokies and sauces.
Is this recipe spicy?
Nope, the Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe is more sweet and savory than spicy, making it perfect for all taste preferences. You can add heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
You can, but the slow cooker really brings out the flavors best through low and slow cooking. If using an Instant Pot, use the slow cooker mode or pressure cook for about 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
What can I substitute for Sweet Baby Ray’s sauces?
Feel free to use your favorite BBQ or teriyaki sauces. Just keep the balance of one cup each to maintain that signature sweet and tangy flavor profile.
How do I keep the meatballs from sticking together?
Occasional stirring during the cooking process helps keep everything coated and separate. Using a slow cooker liner or lightly greasing the crockpot can also prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
If you want a recipe that practically cooks itself but delivers maximum flavor and wow factor, the Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe is your answer. It’s simply delicious, super easy, and guaranteed to be the hit of any party or family dinner. Give it a go and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Print
Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This easy and flavorful Crockpot Teriyaki BBQ Meatballs & Lil Smokies recipe combines tender frozen meatballs and smoky mini sausages with a savory blend of barbecue and teriyaki sauces. Perfect for parties or game day, this slow cooker dish requires minimal prep and results in a deliciously sticky, sweet, and tangy appetizer that guests will love.
Ingredients
Meatball and Sausage Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen homestyle meatballs
- 14 oz package Lit’l Smokies sausages
Sauces
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Sweet Teriyaki Sauce
Instructions
- Add Meatballs and Sausages: Place the frozen homestyle meatballs and the package of Lit’l Smokies sausages into a large slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed for even cooking.
- Add Sauces and Stir: Pour in 1 cup of Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce and 1 cup of Sweet Baby Ray’s Sweet Teriyaki Sauce over the meatballs and sausages. Stir gently to coat all pieces thoroughly with the sauce mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, or on low heat for 6 to 7 hours. Stir occasionally during the cooking process to ensure even sauce coverage and prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the meatballs and Lil Smokies directly from the slow cooker or transfer them to a serving platter. Provide toothpicks for easy appetizer-style eating.
Notes
- For best results, do not thaw meatballs before cooking; they can go straight from frozen into the slow cooker.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.
- This recipe is great for parties and can be kept warm in the slow cooker for several hours.
- To add extra flavor, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or chopped green onions as a garnish before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
