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Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs

A cozy, hands-off appetizer or weeknight main that combines savory meat with sweet-spiced apple butter and tangy barbecue sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken) Choose leaner for less grease, or fattier for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup apple butter Provides sweetness and depth to the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Check for gluten-free options if needed.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, apple butter, and barbecue sauce.
  2. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in the crockpot.
Cooking
  1. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Serving
  1. Serve warm straight from the crockpot with toothpicks for an easy appetizer, or over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a heartier main.
  2. Pair with a side of crisp greens or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Notes

For best results, stir gently once or twice during cooking for even coating. Brown meatballs before slow cooking for added color if desired.