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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs (Easy, Juicy & Flavor-Packed Dinner Recipe)
Isla Marie

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This easy, hands-off recipe delivers deep flavor with minimal effort and is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb 450g ground beef (or chicken/turkey)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup water
Optional Thickener:
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
For Garnish:
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Slow cooker
  • Skillet (optional, for browning)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare Meatball Mixture
  1. In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2. Shape Meatballs
  1. Form into evenly sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
Step 3. Optional Browning
  1. Lightly brown the meatballs in a pan for extra flavor (optional step).
Step 4. Prepare Sauce
  1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and water until well combined.
Step 5. Add to Slow Cooker
  1. Place meatballs in the slow cooker and pour sauce over them, ensuring even coating.
Step 6. Cook
  1. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until meatballs are tender.
Step 7. Thicken Sauce (Optional)
  1. Stir in cornstarch slurry during the last 20–30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Step 8. Garnish & Serve
  1. Top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender
  • Use slightly fatty meat for better texture
  • Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar or honey
  • Let sauce reduce slightly for deeper flavor
  • Browning meatballs enhances taste but is optional