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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

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A comforting recipe for teriyaki meatballs made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds frozen fully-cooked meatballs
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional for extra sweetness)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce base: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and honey if using.
  2. Load the slow cooker: Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top and stir to coat.
  3. Cook slowly: Cover and cook on Low for 240–300 minutes or High for 120–180 minutes, stirring halfway through to coat meatballs.
  4. Thicken the sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir together cornstarch and water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Pour it into the slow cooker and stir. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and clings to the meatballs.
  5. Finish and serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or as a party appetizer.

Notes

Use quality ingredients and adjust sweetness to preference. Don’t skip the slurry to thicken the sauce.

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