Slow Cooker Spicy Orange Marmalade Meatballs
Delicious and easy-to-make meatballs cooked in a sweet and spicy orange marmalade sauce, perfect for dinner or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey Choose your favorite for the meatballs; ground turkey provides a lighter option.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For binding the meatballs. Swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- 1 large egg Helps them hold together. For an egg-free version, use a flax egg instead.
- ½ cup chopped onion Adds a lovely sweetness. Use shallots for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For those aromatic notes. Feel free to add more for an extra kick!
- 1 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors in your dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper A little heat to balance the sweet.
For the sauce
- ½ cup orange marmalade The star ingredient! Look for a less sweet variety, or make your own.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce Adds depth and umami. Tamari can be used for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to your heat preference for that spicy edge.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re evenly spaced for even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
Cooking
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs, making sure each one is well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once finished, serve the meatballs as they are, or over a bed of rice or noodles.
Notes
For the best flavor, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking. Experiment with other fruit preserves and adjust spices to your liking.