Description
These Crockpot Apple Butter Meatballs with Bourbon are a flavorful and easy appetizer perfect for any gathering. The combination of sweet apple butter, tangy barbecue sauce, a hint of bourbon, and a touch of heat from chili powder creates a rich and savory glaze over tender meatballs, slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2/3 cup apple butter
- 2/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1/3 cup bourbon (We used Maker's Mark)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
Meatball Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen pre-cooked meatballs
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the apple butter, barbecue sauce, hot sauce if using, bourbon, and chili powder. Mix until all ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful glaze.
- Arrange the Meatballs: Place the frozen pre-cooked meatballs evenly into the slow cooker, spreading them out to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared apple butter barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs, making sure each meatball is coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on the low setting of your slow cooker for 2-3 hours. This allows the meatballs to heat through completely and absorb the tasty sauce.
- Serve: Once heated through and sauce is thickened slightly, serve the meatballs warm as a delicious appetizer or party dish.
Notes
- If bourbon is not preferred, you can substitute with apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to taste based on your preferred spice level.
- Using pre-cooked frozen meatballs saves time and makes preparation quick and easy.
- Keep the slow cooker on low to prevent overcooking and maintain meatball tenderness.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for an added fresh touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
