Name: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds frozen meatballs; 1 cup teriyaki sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

I love recipes that give you maximum flavor with minimum effort, and these Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are one of my favorites. They combine sweet and savory notes with a sticky glaze that clings to every juicy bite, and they come together with hardly any hands-on time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want an easy weeknight dinner, these meatballs deliver bold flavor that feels like takeout without the cost or effort.

What I really enjoy about this dish is its versatility. You can serve the meatballs over rice, in sliders, or even on their own with toothpicks for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. The slow cooker does all the work while you get on with your day, and the result is rich, glossy meatballs coated in a thick teriyaki sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly flavorful, and the slow cooker makes them practically effortless. The sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze gets absorbed beautifully as they simmer, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Perfect for busy days, potlucks, or easy meal prep, this recipe is a go-to that requires very little babysitting.

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can use frozen pre-cooked meatballs or make your own from scratch—both work beautifully. If you’re short on time, frozen meatballs are the ultimate shortcut and still soak up the teriyaki sauce wonderfully. Homemade meatballs will give you a bit more control over seasoning and texture if you prefer to go that route.

Options for Substitutions

Meatballs: Swap beef meatballs for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based versions for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought is quick and easy, but you can also make a homemade version with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch.
Pineapple Chunks: Add these for a tropical twist and extra sweetness.
Spice Level: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes if you like it hot.
Garnishes: Sesame seeds and chopped scallions add color and crunch but are optional.

Ingredients for This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe

Frozen Meatballs: These are the base of the recipe. You can use beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian varieties. They hold up well in the slow cooker and soak up all the sauce flavors.
Teriyaki Sauce: The star of the show. It delivers that classic balance of sweet, salty, and umami. Use a thick, good-quality teriyaki sauce to coat the meatballs beautifully.
Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and creates that sticky glaze effect.
Garlic: Adds a savory depth to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Ginger: Brings a slight warmth and traditional teriyaki flavor.
Soy Sauce: Boosts the umami and saltiness in the sauce.
Pineapple Chunks (optional): Adds a pop of acidity and sweetness, giving a Hawaiian-style twist.
Cornstarch Slurry (cornstarch + water): Helps thicken the sauce into that luscious glaze.
Sesame Seeds: For garnish and a slight nutty crunch.
Green Onions: Freshness and color to finish the dish off.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. If you’re using pineapple, add a bit of the juice to the sauce for extra flavor.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker. If using pineapple chunks, scatter them in between the meatballs. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top, making sure every meatball is coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the meatballs well coated in sauce. The meatballs will absorb the sauce and become incredibly flavorful.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker. This will thicken the sauce as it finishes cooking. Stir again after 15 minutes to ensure even consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the sauce is thick and glossy, top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or as a party appetizer.

How Long to Prepare the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs Recipe

Prep Time: You only need about 10 minutes to get everything ready. That includes whisking the sauce, prepping optional garnishes, and tossing the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker. It’s fast, straightforward, and requires minimal cleanup.

Cook Time: On the LOW setting, the meatballs take 4 to 5 hours to get perfectly tender and infused with teriyaki flavor. If you’re in a hurry, HIGH for 2 to 3 hours works just as well. You can set it and forget it until it’s time to thicken the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Meatballs

Use quality meatballs: Whether frozen or homemade, the flavor and texture of your meatballs will directly affect the final dish.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: This simple step transforms the sauce into a restaurant-style glaze.
Stir occasionally: Gently mix the meatballs during cooking so each one gets coated evenly.
Go for thick teriyaki sauce: A thicker sauce sticks better and gives a richer finish.
Add pineapple at the beginning: It adds moisture and a delightful sweet contrast to the savory glaze.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the slow cooker: Too many meatballs may prevent even cooking. Make sure they have space to simmer in the sauce.
Skipping the thickening step: If you forget to add the slurry, the sauce may end up watery.
Using thin or watery teriyaki sauce: It won’t coat well and may dilute during cooking.
Not tasting the sauce: Always adjust sweetness or saltiness before pouring over the meatballs.
Forgetting to stir: Leaving the meatballs untouched for hours may lead to uneven sauce absorption.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs?

1. Steamed White or Jasmine Rice

Classic and neutral, rice soaks up that sticky teriyaki sauce beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Vegetables

Bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli add color and crunch to your plate.

3. Asian Noodle Salad

Served cold or warm, it balances the sweet-savory richness of the meatballs.

4. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Quick and simple, they add a fresh, garlicky contrast.

5. Hawaiian Rolls or Sliders

Turn these meatballs into fun party sandwiches by tucking them into soft rolls.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the meatballs cool completely, then store them in an airtight container with the sauce. They’ll last up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Freezer: These meatballs freeze very well. Once cooled, transfer them and the sauce to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (approx. 5 meatballs with sauce):

Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugars: 15g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sodium: 620mg
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of teriyaki sauce should I use?

Use a thick, good-quality sauce or make your own with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Avoid thin or watery sauces.

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead and reheat it. It often tastes even better the next day.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that your meatballs and teriyaki sauce are gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe for a party?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker can accommodate the extra volume. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are the ultimate answer to easy, flavorful cooking. With minimal prep and a hands-off approach, they deliver restaurant-quality taste that everyone loves. Whether you’re meal-prepping, entertaining, or just craving something deliciously different, these meatballs will become a regular in your rotation. Sweet, sticky, and savory—this dish is as satisfying as it is simple.