Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transform your ordinary appetizer into a crowd-stopping sensation! These Buffalo Blue Cheese Crockpot Meatballs are not just another recipe—they're a culinary experience that combines the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy richness of blue cheese, and the tender perfection of slow-cooked meatballs. Whether you're hosting a game day party, planning a casual get-together, or simply craving something incredibly delicious, these meatballs are guaranteed to be the star of the show.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 egg
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, crumbled blue cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands or a spoon, mix the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should have approximately 24 meatballs.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing until thoroughly combined.
- Place the meatballs in the crockpot in a single layer, if possible. Pour the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become tender.
- After 4 hours, check the meatballs for doneness. They should be cooked through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Once cooked, serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional crumbled blue cheese or chopped green onions if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with toothpicks as an appetizer.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: When combining ingredients, mix gently to keep meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense meatballs.
- Size Matters: Try to keep meatballs uniform in size (about 1 inch) to ensure even cooking.
- Sauce Coating: Make sure each meatball is well-coated in the buffalo-ranch mixture for maximum flavor absorption.
- Low and Slow: The crockpot's low setting is key to developing rich, deep flavors and keeping the meatballs moist.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle additional crumbled blue cheese or chopped green onions before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 120mg
