Savory, sweet, and ultra satisfying, these Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are your new favorite set-it-and-forget-it dinner. Tender meatballs simmer in a glossy teriyaki sauce, soaking up all that rich flavor while you go about your day. With minimal prep and a huge payoff, this is the kind of comfort food that fits into busy schedules without skimping on taste.

Whether you serve them over steamed rice, noodles, or as a party appetizer with toothpicks, these meatballs deliver on flavor and versatility. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into something crave-worthy with just a few hours of low and slow magic.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

This recipe combines ease and taste in one delicious pot. The slow cooker ensures perfectly tender meatballs without any need to babysit a hot stove. Homemade teriyaki sauce brings a balance of salty, sweet, and umami notes that elevate frozen meatballs into something truly special. It’s weeknight-friendly and also fancy enough for a game-day spread or family gathering.

Can I Use Frozen Meatballs or Should I Make My Own?

You can absolutely use frozen meatballs for this recipe, which is one reason it’s such a great time-saver. However, if you’re up for it, homemade meatballs can add an extra layer of texture and freshness. Either way, the teriyaki sauce steals the show and brings it all together beautifully.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

The ingredients for this dish are all about flavor balance. Sweet meets savory, with a hint of tang and a touch of richness to make every bite memorable. If you want to keep things as hands-off as possible, go with frozen meatballs. Or if you’re in the mood for from-scratch comfort, make your favorite homemade version.

Frozen meatballs
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Honey
Garlic
Ginger
Rice vinegar
Cornstarch + water (slurry)
Green onions
Sesame seeds

Each component brings something essential. The soy sauce gives that deep umami base, while brown sugar and honey offer layered sweetness. Garlic and ginger wake up the palate, and rice vinegar adds acidity to balance the sweetness. The cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect glossy texture. Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds makes it extra pretty and delicious.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Step 1: Prep the Teriyaki Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. This forms the flavor-packed sauce that will coat the meatballs.

Step 2: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

Place the frozen meatballs into the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Stir gently to coat all the meatballs evenly.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The sauce will infuse the meatballs as they warm through.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a slurry made of cornstarch and water. This will thicken the sauce into a rich, sticky glaze.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or enjoy them straight from the slow cooker.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs

These meatballs feed around 6 to 8 people, depending on how they’re served. Over rice, they make a hearty dinner. Served on skewers or toothpicks, they become a fun appetizer.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The go-to pairing. Fluffy white rice soaks up all that glossy teriyaki goodness.

Garlic Stir-Fried Green Beans

Crisp and vibrant, these add texture and freshness to your plate.

Asian Slaw

A crunchy, tangy slaw with cabbage and carrots brings balance to the sweet meatballs.

Pineapple Fried Rice

For a tropical twist, the sweetness of pineapple plays beautifully with teriyaki.

Sesame Noodles

Tossed with a light sesame oil dressing, these noodles are a cozy companion.

Roasted Broccoli

Simple roasted broccoli gives a healthy, hearty contrast to the sticky meatballs.

Pickled Cucumbers

Something cold and acidic works wonders with the warm, sweet-savory profile of the dish.

Want More Meatball Ideas?

If you love these Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs, check out these other savory meatball recipes and ideas:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a fresh, green-packed option.
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach for creamy, protein-rich comfort.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re craving indulgence.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta as a vegetarian side to pair with meatballs.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest slow cooker board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you used homemade meatballs or went the frozen route. Did you toss in any veggies or try a spicy version?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next flavorful favorite.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs offer the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and versatility. With just a few pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker, you can bring a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal to the table with hardly any effort. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for a crowd, this dish always delivers.