introduction
Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs are a cozy, hands-off appetizer or weeknight main that marries savory ground meat with sweet-spiced apple butter and tangy barbecue sauce. They’re ideal for busy days, party platters, or when you want a comforting dish with minimal fuss. For a fall-themed spread, pair these with other apple-forward treats like apple pie egg rolls to keep the menu cohesive.
why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect when you want a crowd-pleaser that requires little attention. The slow cooker develops tender meatballs and lets the apple butter glaze deepen in flavor over hours of gentle heat. It’s flexible (use beef, turkey, or chicken), quick to assemble, and great for potlucks, game days, or Sunday suppers.
how to make Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs
Making these meatballs is straightforward: mix, form, and slow-cook. The slow cooker does the work of melding flavors and keeping the meatballs moist and tender.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Directions :
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, apple butter, and barbecue sauce.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish.
how to serve Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs
Serve warm straight from the crockpot with toothpicks for an easy appetizer, or over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a heartier main. A side of crisp greens or roasted seasonal vegetables balances the sweet glaze. For a brunch or dessert-forward spread, consider serving alongside items like country apple fritter bread for complementary apple flavors.
how to store Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. To freeze, place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
tips to make Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs
- Use leaner meat for less grease, or a fattier blend for more richness—either will work.
- If the mixture feels too wet to form meatballs, chill briefly before shaping.
- Brown meatballs quickly in a skillet for added color and a slightly firmer crust, then transfer to the crockpot (optional).
- Stir gently once or twice during cooking if possible to ensure even coating.
variation (if any)
- Add finely chopped onion, garlic, or fresh herbs (sage or thyme) to the meat mixture for extra savory depth.
- Stir in a splash of bourbon or apple cider vinegar to the sauce for complexity.
- Make mini meatballs for appetizers or larger ones to serve over grains.
FAQ
Q: Can I bake these instead of using a crockpot?
A: Yes — place meatballs and sauce in a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 25–35 minutes, until cooked through.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: The base ingredients listed are gluten-free, but check your barbecue sauce label for hidden gluten ingredients.
Q: Can I make them ahead?
A: Yes — prepare and refrigerate overnight, then reheat in the slow cooker or oven before serving.
Conclusion
For more inspiration on apple-butter-glazed meatball ideas, see this detailed slow-cooker version: Apple Butter Meatballs (Slow Cooker Recipe) – 4 Sons ‘R’ Us. If you want a boozy twist or a different sauce profile, check this variation: Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs with Bourbon.
Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, apple butter, and barbecue sauce.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve warm straight from the crockpot with toothpicks for an easy appetizer, or over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a heartier main.
- Pair with a side of crisp greens or roasted seasonal vegetables.
