As die-hard Green Bay Packers fans, even during the worst of seasons (like 2018!), we rarely miss a game. Watching a game at home (unfortunately we’re not season ticketholders) or with friends is never complete without some fun tailgate foods to set the mood. Sometimes I plan ahead and choose a new treat I found on Pinterest (check out my Football, Food & Fun board!). Other times it’s just something quick and easy.
I first made these BBQ meatballs for a gathering we hosted for my husband’s business team, and they loved them so much they were gone in a heartbeat….an entire crockpot full! I built this recipe based on flavor combinations I thought might make a good BBQ sauce – a little of this, a bit of that – and by some miracle they turned out fantastic on the first shot.
To keep it extra simple, I don’t bother making homemade meatballs. I always keep a jumbo-sized bag of frozen Italian meatballs (usually available at CostCo) in the freezer so that I can pull some out anytime and whip these up. They’re just the right size for an appetizer, and they’re flavorful and tender. It’s super easy to get these rolling a couple hours before you plan to serve – no fuss, no muss when your guests arrive. Hope you enjoy!
PS – I have to tell you I LOVE my crockpot. Why? It’s a perfect size for so many uses, it’s programmable so cooks perfectly, and it has a secure lid, perfect for travel. I’ve had a number of them over the years, but this is my all-time favorite. If you’re in the market, check this one out.
Quick & Easy BBQ Meatballs
Ingredients
- 4 C ketchup I use Heinz
- 1/2 C dark brown sugar
- 2 sticks of butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 T balsamic vinegar
- 1 T soy sauce
- 2 tsp salt
- 8-10 cranks of black pepper
- 48 frozen Italian meatballs
Instructions
- Put butter in a crockpot on high to melt. When butter is melted, add remaining ingredients except the meatballs. Bake the meatballs separately, according to package instructions, turning once to brown. When meatballs are baked, add to crockpot, turn crockpot to low temperature and let them go! Ideally, let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 1-2 hours.
