Name: Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 35 min
Yield: 25
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large egg; 2 lbs Lean ground turkey; ⅔ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 3 cloves garlic; 2 tsp oregano; 1½ tsp salt; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper; 1 large sweet onion; 1¾ cups BBQ sauce; ½ cup Italian dressing; 1 tbsp olive oil

Ditch the traditional beef and try this scrumptious slow cooker bbq turkey meatballs recipe. It's a simple and delicious way to enjoy a healthier, leaner protein. The blend of herbs, spices, and a smoky-sweet barbecue sauce elevates the turkey to a whole new level of flavor. Whether it's a weeknight meal or a party appetizer, these turkey meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Photos of Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Recipe

All of the ingredients for this recipe are quite common and should be easy to find in any supermarket. However, do pay attention to the ground turkey. Opt for lean ground turkey for healthier meatballs. Also, the type of barbecue sauce you use can greatly influence the flavor of the dish. Choose one that suits your taste preference. The Panko breadcrumbs used in this recipe, a type of flaky breadcrumb, are found in the Asian food section.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.

Ground turkey: A leaner alternative to ground beef that's just as delicious.

Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs have a light, airy texture that helps keep the meatballs tender.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor that pairs well with the turkey and bbq sauce.

Oregano: Gives the meatballs a hint of earthy, minty flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Paprika: Provides a sweet-smoky taste.

Black pepper: Gives a slight heat to the meatballs.

Sweet onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and complements the bbq sauce.

BBQ sauce: Gives the meatballs a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Italian dressing: Adds a tangy, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the bbq sauce.

Olive oil: Used for browning the meatballs to seal in the flavors.

One reader, Christan Ridgeway says:

These slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs were a game-changer! The flavors were amazing, and the meatballs were so tender. The recipe was easy to follow, and the end result was a hit with my family. I'll definitely be making this again – it's a new favorite in our house!

Christan Ridgeway

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

How to prepare the meatball mixture: Combine the ground turkey, egg, panko, garlic, oregano, salt, paprika, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, and mix until just combined.

How to roll the meatballs: Take the meatball mixture and roll it into slightly larger than golf ball-sized meatballs.

How to brown the meatballs: Lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet for about 1 minute on each side to enhance flavor and help set the meatballs.

How to layer the meatballs in the slow cooker: Place the onion slices in the bottom of the slow cooker, then layer the browned meatballs on top.

How to cook the meatballs in the slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce and onions.

How to serve the meatballs: Serve the meatballs warm with the sauce and onions, and pair them with mashed potatoes, veggies, salad, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or rolls and melted mozzarella for sandwiches.

How To Make Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Slow-cooked to perfection, these juicy and generously-seasoned turkey meatballs are easy to make, then drizzled with a tasty BBQ sauce and Italian dressing!

Preparation: 35 minutes

Cooking: 7 hours

Total: 7 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1largeegg
2lbslean ground turkey,(92 to 97%)
⅔cupPanko breadcrumbs,or gluten-free, or quick oats, or whole oats
3clovesgarlic,(about 1 tbsp) minced, finely chopped
2tsporegano,dried
1½tspsalt
1tsppaprika,smoked
1tspfresh ground black pepper
1large sweet onion,sliced
1¾cupsBBQ sauce
½cupItalian dressing,store bought, or homemade
1tbspolive oil

Instructions

Beat the egg in a large mixing bowl.
Add the ground turkey, panko, garlic, oregano, salt, paprika, and pepper.
Mix everything up just so the ingredients are combined – avoid overmixing.
Roll into desired size balls – slightly larger than a golfball, if desired.
Place all the rolled meatballs on a large baking sheet.
Place the onion slices in the bottom of the slow cooker, then top with ½ of the BBQ sauce and ½ of the Italian dressing (the rest will go on top).
Coat a large skillet with olive oil and bring to medium-high heat.
Lightly brown the meatballs in batches for about 1 minute on each side. (Do not skip this step. So much flavor and it helps set the meatballs so they do not fall apart.)
Layer the meatballs into the slow cooker while browning each batch.
Once all browned meatballs have been added to the slow cooker, pour the remaining BBQ sauce and Italian dressing on top.
Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours or on High for 4 hours. Serve warm with sauce and onions.
Enjoy alone, or with mashed potatoes and veggies, salad, sweet potato fries, onion rings, with rolls and melted mozzarella for sandwiches, or even with toothpicks as a party appetizer.

Recipe Notes

Store the leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Make-Ahead and Freezing instructions: Prepare meatballs through the browning step; cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day or freeze up to 2 months. Add to slow cooker and cook as directed. OR you can fully prepare 1 day in advance, refrigerate, then cook in the slow cooker on low for 45 minutes or until warmed. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 2 months. Defrost before reheating as desired.
Meat: Any ground meat preferred can be used.
As a substitute for Panko breadcrumbs, whole wheat or homemade dry breadcrumbs can be used instead. Or even oats. To make own breadcrumbs for this particular recipe, trim the crusts from 2 slices of stale whole wheat bread. Cut the bread into pieces and pulse in a food processor until coarse crumbs form. Spread the breadcrumbs on a baking sheet and bake at 250 degrees F until dry, about 12 to 14 minutes. This makes around ⅔ cup.
BBQ Sauce and Italian Dressing: Use your favorite BBQ sauce and Italian dressing. These make up the sauce, so make sure you like their flavor!
Slow Cooker: A 4-quart or larger slow cooker may be used.
No Slow Cooker? No problem. Add the shaped meatballs to a large skillet coated with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned on all sides. Place on a large baking sheet. Repeat with all the meatballs since they cannot all fit into the pan at once. Turn off heat. Pour off any excess oil. In a very large pot, add the sliced onions and half of the BBQ sauce and Italian dressing. Add the meatballs and pour the remaining BBQ sauce and Italian dressing on top. Turn the heat to low-medium and simmer for 25 to 35 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, the flavors blend, and the meatballs are cooked through.

Nutrition

Calories: 121.69kcal
Fat: 5.05g
Saturated Fat: 1.10g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.74g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.53g
Carbohydrates: 11.33g
Fiber: 0.48g
Sugar: 7.95g
Protein: 7.91g
Cholesterol: 35.63mg
Sodium: 234.69mg
Calcium: 23.98mg
Potassium: 163.25mg
Iron: 0.72mg
Vitamin A: 15.12µg
Vitamin C: 1.03mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

When browning the meatballs in the skillet, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the meatballs to steam rather than brown, which can affect the flavor and texture. If necessary, brown the meatballs in batches to ensure each one has enough space to cook properly. This will help to seal in the juices and give your meatballs a delicious, caramelized exterior.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture for uniform meatballs, saving time and ensuring consistent size.

Double the batch: Make a double batch of meatballs and freeze half for later use. This way, you'll have ready-to-cook meatballs on hand for a quick meal.

Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup, saving time on washing the slow cooker pot.

Pre-cut onions: Save time by using pre-cut onions or consider using a food processor to quickly chop the onions for the recipe.

Prep station: Set up a prep station with all the ingredients and tools you need before you start cooking to streamline the process and save time.

Multi-task: While the meatballs are cooking in the slow cooker, use that time to prepare side dishes or work on other tasks to maximize efficiency.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Recipe

egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal can be used as a binding agent in place of eggs, and it also adds a nutty flavor to the meatballs.
lean ground turkey - Substitute with lean ground chicken: Lean ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey, and it will provide a similar texture and flavor to the meatballs.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs to maintain the desired texture.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but in smaller quantities.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the meatballs.
sweet onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for sweet onions, as they offer a mild and slightly sweet flavor.
bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade bbq sauce: Making a homemade BBQ sauce allows for customization of flavors and reduces the reliance on store-bought options, which may contain high levels of sugar and preservatives.
Italian dressing - Substitute with balsamic vinaigrette: Balsamic vinaigrette can be used as a substitute for Italian dressing, providing a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the meatballs.

Presenting Delectable Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Elevate the plating: Arrange the turkey meatballs in a circular pattern on a large, white, porcelain platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to pop against the backdrop.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley and chives over the meatballs, adding a touch of freshness and a burst of color to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Place the meatballs on a bed of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, creating a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Artfully drizzle a balsamic reduction in a zigzag pattern across the platter, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to complement the savory meatballs.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the meatballs with slices of warm, crusty artisanal bread, allowing guests to savor every last bit of the delectable sauce.
Present in individual ramekins: For a more refined presentation, serve the meatballs in individual ramekins, garnished with a sprig of rosemary for an elegant touch.
Create a visual focal point: Place a single, vibrant edible flower at the center of the platter, drawing the eye and adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Use elegant serving utensils: Provide guests with polished silver serving utensils, adding a touch of luxury to the dining experience.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: For an opulent touch, delicately place a few edible gold leaf flakes on the meatballs, adding a touch of glamour to the presentation.
Accompany with a wine pairing: Serve the dish alongside a carefully selected wine pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience and elevating the flavors of the meal.

Essential Equipment for Making Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Large mixing bowl: A large, deep bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures, making it ideal for slow cooking dishes.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).
Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen meatballs can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, place the frozen meatballs in a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the meatballs in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until they reach the desired temperature.
If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When reheating the meatballs with the sauce, combine them in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Reheat in the slow cooker: Place the leftover meatballs and sauce back into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. This method is perfect for keeping the meatballs moist and flavorful.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on a baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
Stovetop method: Place the meatballs and sauce in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Microwave method: Place the meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and to keep the meatballs moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatballs to become tough.
Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender.

Interesting Trivia About Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Turkey meatballs are a great source of lean protein and can be a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs.

Is Making Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Budget-Friendly?

This slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey is a budget-friendly protein, and the addition of panko breadcrumbs and onions keeps the cost down. The use of BBQ sauce and Italian dressing adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable and delicious option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its cost-effectiveness and flavorful outcome.

Are Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Healthy?

This slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Let's break it down:

Healthy aspects:

Lean ground turkey is a good source of protein and lower in fat compared to ground beef
Garlic and onion provide flavor and some nutrients
Oregano and paprika add antioxidants and flavor without extra calories

Less healthy aspects:

The recipe includes processed ingredients like BBQ sauce and Italian dressing, which can be high in sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats
Panko breadcrumbs add some refined carbohydrates and minimal nutritional value
Browning the meatballs in olive oil adds extra fat and calories

To make this recipe healthier, consider these suggestions:

Replace the processed BBQ sauce and Italian dressing with homemade versions using tomato sauce, vinegar, herbs, and spices, controlling the amount of sugar and sodium added
Swap the panko breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats for added fiber and nutrients
Instead of browning the meatballs in oil, bake them in the oven until lightly browned before adding them to the slow cooker
Increase the amount of garlic, onion, and herbs for more flavor without adding calories
Serve the meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to boost the overall nutritional value of the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a healthier version of slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of lean ground turkey, flavorful seasonings, and the slow cooking process creates tender and juicy meatballs. The addition of BBQ sauce and Italian dressing infuses the meatballs with a sweet and tangy flavor, while the onions add a subtle depth. The versatility of serving options makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a main dish, sandwich filling, or party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and toasty garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a tangy caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and shaved parmesan cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Crispy Parmesan Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These crispy parmesan garlic roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. They are easy to make and bursting with flavor.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This honey mustard glazed salmon recipe is a delicious and healthy option for dinner. The sweet and tangy glaze pairs perfectly with the tender salmon fillets.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing mango avocado salsa is a great addition to any summer meal. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and it pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Caprese Skewers: Assemble skewers of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves for a simple yet elegant appetizer. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate in the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious, creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy cheesecake and sweet, juicy strawberries.

Why trust this Slow Cooker BBQ Turkey Meatballs Recipe:

This slow cooker bbq turkey meatballs recipe guarantees tender, flavorful results. The combination of lean ground turkey and panko breadcrumbs ensures a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The addition of garlic and oregano infuses rich, aromatic flavors, while the bbq sauce and Italian dressing create a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes. The use of olive oil for browning enhances the overall taste and texture. Trust this recipe for a satisfying, hassle-free meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Want to share your own slow cooker recipes or discuss tips and tricks for making delicious BBQ turkey meatballs? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How can I prevent the meatballs from falling apart while cooking?

To prevent the meatballs from falling apart, it's important to lightly brown them in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This helps to set the meatballs and maintain their shape during the cooking process.

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for lean ground turkey, you can easily substitute it with ground chicken, beef, or pork based on your preference.

What can I serve with the slow cooker BBQ turkey meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them with mashed potatoes and veggies, in a sandwich with melted mozzarella, or even as a party appetizer with toothpicks.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. This can be a time-saving option for busy days or when preparing for a gathering.

Is it necessary to use a slow cooker, or can I cook the meatballs using a different method?

While the slow cooker method allows the flavors to develop beautifully, you can also bake the meatballs in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through.