Crockpot Apple Meatballs

Okay, imagine this: tender little meatballs simmering all day in your crockpot, soaking up this slightly sweet, apple-infused sauce that smells like a cozy autumn day. Yep—this recipe basically turns your slow cooker into a magic box of comfort and flavor. The juicy apples add a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory meat, creating a combo that’s both surprising and downright addictive. Plus, it’s so hands-off, you can set it and forget it while your house fills up with the most mouthwatering aroma. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to for easy weeknight dinners or game day snacks.

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 small apple, peeled and grated (about ½ cup)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning, optional but recommended)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup apple cider
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (to thicken)

How I Make It

Step 1:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated apple, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon just until combined—don’t overmix or your meatballs will get tough.

Step 2:

Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 24 in total. If you want, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly brown the meatballs on all sides (about 2 minutes per side). This step is optional but really ups the flavor and texture.

Step 3:

Transfer the meatballs to your crockpot in a single layer.

Step 4:

Whisk together the apple cider, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cayenne in a bowl until smooth. Pour this sauce evenly over the meatballs.

Step 5:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 6:

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes. Give everything a gentle stir, then spoon out those beautiful apple-infused meatballs and sauce!

Variations & Tips

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a handful of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the meatball mix for some crunch.
• If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Make the sauce ahead and freeze separately; just warm and toss with freshly cooked meatballs.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• For extra caramelized flavor, don’t skip the optional browning step—it really enhances the taste.

How I Like to Serve It

These apple meatballs are absolute winners over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. They also make a fantastic party appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking. During cozy fall gatherings, throw them alongside roasted veggies or a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Closing: No matter the occasion, these Crockpot Apple Meatballs offer that perfect blend of sweet and savory that always hits the spot, making weeknight dinners feel a little extra special.