These Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. Tender, juicy meatballs are coated in a sticky, tangy glaze that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of honey. The best part? Just 10 minutes of prep lets your slow cooker do the work, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas for 4 hours.
With a texture that’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and a flavor profile that’s bold yet approachable, these meatballs are perfect for game day, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. The rich, smoky buffalo sauce paired with the subtle sweetness of honey creates a harmony that’s downright addictive. Plus, they’re hearty enough to satisfy any appetite while still feeling indulgent.
What You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup honey
- ⅓ cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup orange marmalade (or substitute with apricot jam for a slightly different flavor)
- 2 Tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- ¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the meatballs: Pour the frozen meatballs into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- Make the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the honey, buffalo wing sauce, brown sugar, orange marmalade (or apricot jam), soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heat until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine: Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for 2-5 hours, or until the meatballs are warmed through and the sauce is bubbly. Stir gently halfway through cooking if needed.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs as-is for a tasty appetizer, or pair them with cooked pasta or rice for a satisfying main dish. Enjoy!
Creative Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your honey buffalo meatballs to the next level by experimenting with sauces and toppings! For a creamier twist, drizzle with blue cheese dressing or ranch before serving. If you love extra heat, add a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking. For a hearty meal, pair them with cooked rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes. Add a side of steamed veggies or a crisp green salad to balance the bold flavors. They’re also great stuffed into slider buns for a fun handheld option!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them in 30-second intervals or warm them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-made frozen meatballs to cut down on prep work. You can also mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’re in a rush, cook the meatballs on HIGH heat for 1-2 hours instead of LOW—just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using chicken meatballs or vegetarian meatballs for a lighter option. If you prefer a tangier sauce, swap the orange marmalade for apricot jam or even pineapple preserves. For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Slow Cooker Honey Buffalo Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- slow cooker
- small saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs
- ½ cup honey
- ⅓ cup buffalo wing sauce
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup orange marmalade (can also use apricot jam)
- 2 Tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- ¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pour frozen meatballs into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sauce ingredients until brown sugar is dissolved.
- Pour sauce on top of meatballs.
- Place lid on top of slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for 2-5 hours or until meatballs are warmed through.
- You can serve these as-is like an appetizer or put them on top of cooked pasta or cooked rice for a yummy main dish.