Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mind-blowing Slow Cooker Apple Butter Meatballs! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a rich, sweet-and-tangy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is the perfect blend of classic comfort food and unexpected flavor combinations that will make you the star of any meal. Whether you're looking to impress your family or need a foolproof dish for your next gathering, these meatballs are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Ensure you have 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 cup of apple butter, and 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Once the mixture is thoroughly combined, shape it into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to form approximately 20-24 meatballs depending on the size.
- Preheat your slow cooker on the low setting while you prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the apple butter and barbecue sauce until well blended.
- Carefully place the meatballs into the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Pour the apple butter and barbecue sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become tender.
- After 4 hours, check the meatballs for doneness. They should be cooked through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce. If desired, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the slow cooker using a slotted spoon and place them on a serving platter. You can drizzle some of the remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the meatballs for added flavor.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Apple Butter Meatballs warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. These meatballs can be enjoyed on their own, as a sandwich filling, or served over rice or pasta.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: When combining the meatball ingredients, use a light touch. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
- Size Matters: Keep your meatballs uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Aim for 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter for the best texture and cooking time.
- Sauce Secrets: For an extra flavor boost, try using a homemade or artisanal barbecue sauce and high-quality apple butter to elevate the dish.
- Prevent Sticking: If you're worried about the meatballs sticking, you can lightly spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray before adding the meatballs.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Cook a double batch and freeze for up to 3 months for an easy future meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or as a party appetizer with toothpicks for maximum versatility.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
