Let’s talk about Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs for a second. You know that one dish at every gathering that disappears before you even grab a plate? Yep. That’s these meatballs.
If you’re juggling work, kids, errands, and somehow trying to show up to a potluck with something better than chips (again), this recipe is your secret weapon. It’s bold, sweet, a little spicy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. And the best part? You start with frozen meatballs. No rolling. No browning. No stress.
Around here at SlowCookersRecipes, I’m all about letting your appliances do the heavy lifting. And these Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs? They practically cook themselves while you sip your coffee or finish wrapping that last-minute hostess gift.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs
There are a lot of party meatballs out there. Some use jelly. Some use chili sauce. These? They skip all that and go straight for bold flavor.
Here’s why they’re always the first thing to go:
- Ready in 25 minutes
- Made with frozen meatballs (no thawing needed!)
- Sweet, tangy, and spicy in one bite
- Perfect for tailgating, potlucks, and holiday parties
- Just as good as a main dish over rice
They’re basically the little black dress of appetizers. Classic. Reliable. Always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples. Nothing fancy.
- 1 cup honey mustard dressing
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (I love Sweet Baby Ray’s Teriyaki)
- 1 cup hot sauce (Frank’s adds the perfect kick)
- 3 pounds frozen meatballs
That’s it. Four ingredients. This is what I call a busy-woman win.
You can use beef meatballs, turkey meatballs, or even homemade if you’re feeling ambitious. But honestly? Store-bought frozen meatballs make this recipe shine because they save you so much time.
How to Make Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs (Stovetop Method)
If you’ve ever wondered how to cook party meatballs on the stove, this is as easy as it gets.
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Grab a Dutch oven or large saucepan. Place it over medium heat.
Add:
- Honey mustard dressing
- Teriyaki sauce
- Hot sauce
Stir everything together until smooth and heated through. The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like game day.
Step 2: Add the Frozen Meatballs
No thawing. Just open the bag and pour them right in.
Stir so each meatball gets coated in that glossy, sticky sauce.
Step 3: Simmer
Turn the heat to medium-low and let the meatballs cook for 25–30 minutes.
Stir occasionally so nothing sticks and every bite soaks up that “awesome sauce.”
That’s it. You’ve just mastered bbq meatballs stovetop style — without jelly, without chili sauce, and without a complicated ingredient list.
Slow Cooker Option (Because We Love Set-It-and-Forget-It)
If you’re planning ahead or hosting, this is the easiest way to make party meatballs crockpot style.
How to Make BBQ Meatballs in a Slow Cooker:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey mustard dressing, teriyaki sauce, and hot sauce.
- Place frozen meatballs in your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the top.
- Cook on LOW for 2–3 hours.
That’s it. No babysitting required.
And here’s the best part: you can keep the slow cooker on warm during your party. The meatballs stay hot, saucy, and ready whenever guests wander over for “just one more.”
If you’ve ever Googled how to make bbq meatballs in crockpot, this is your answer.
Are Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs Spicy?
Yes… but in a fun way.
There’s definitely a kick from the hot sauce. It’s not melt-your-face-off spicy, but you’ll notice it.
If you’re serving picky eaters or spice-sensitive friends, here’s what I recommend:
- Start with ½ cup hot sauce.
- Taste the sauce.
- Add more a teaspoon at a time until it feels right.
Remember, you’re in charge of the heat level. Cooking should work for your family, not the other way around.
My Little Party Confession
The first time I made these Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs, it was for a last-minute neighborhood football party. I had exactly 40 minutes before we needed to leave. Panic mode.
I threw everything in a pot, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best.
They were gone in 10 minutes.
I didn’t even get one.
Now? I always make a double batch and hide a few in the back of the slow cooker. Mom deserves meatballs too.
What Goes Good with BBQ Meatballs?
If you’re serving these as more than just cocktail meatballs, here are some easy pairings:
- White or brown rice
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Hawaiian rolls for mini sliders
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A simple coleslaw for crunch
They’re surprisingly versatile. Sweet, savory, spicy — they play well with almost everything.
Tips for the Best Party Meatballs
A few simple tricks make these even better:
1. Use Smaller Meatballs
I prefer the ½-ounce frozen meatballs. They’re bite-sized and perfect for cocktail meatballs. Bigger ones work too, but cooking time may increase slightly.
2. Stir Often
The sauce thickens as it cooks. Stirring keeps everything evenly coated.
3. Don’t Panic if the Sauce Thickens
If it looks thick, that’s just extra flavor clinging to every bite. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
4. Keep Them Warm
If serving at a party, keep them in the slow cooker on warm. No one likes a cold meatball.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely. If you prefer homemade over frozen meatballs, go for it. Just cook them fully before adding them to the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate.
They’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days.
How do I reheat them?
You have options:
Microwave for quick lunches
Warm on the stovetop over low heat
Bake covered with foil in the oven until heated through
They also freeze well, which makes them perfect for meal prep.
Can I make these less spicy?
Yes. Reduce the hot sauce and taste as you go. You’re the boss of your sauce.
Make Them for More Than Just Parties
Don’t box these into the “appetizer” category.
Serve them over rice for a fast weeknight dinner. Spoon them into slider buns for game day. Or pack leftovers in lunch containers for a protein-packed midday win.
They’re especially handy during busy seasons — holidays, back-to-school chaos, or when life just feels like one giant to-do list.
That’s why I love recipes like this. Minimal effort. Maximum flavor. Real-life friendly.
Let’s Bring the Party Home
There’s something magical about a recipe that’s this simple yet gets rave reviews every time. Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs check all the boxes: easy, bold, crowd-pleasing, and flexible enough for both a casual Tuesday and a holiday gathering.
So the next time you need a dependable appetizer or a no-stress dinner idea, pull out those frozen meatballs and make a batch of Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your guests will hover near the slow cooker, and you just might have to stash a few away for yourself.
And honestly? That’s the kind of awesome we all deserve.
More Crowd-Pleasers You’ll Love
If these Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs were a hit at your table, here are a few more easy favorites to keep in your back pocket for game day, holidays, or those “I need something fast!” moments:
- Add another bold appetizer to your lineup with these saucy Sweet and Spicy Slow Cooker Meatballs — they bring the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
- Set out a warm bowl of Crockpot Jalapeño Corn Dip alongside your meatballs for a creamy, scoopable side that disappears fast.
- Turn meatballs into a cozy family dinner with these comforting Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs served over pasta or tucked into toasted rolls.
- For another simple twist with that same sweet-and-spicy vibe, try these easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Party Meatballs — proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated.
Because once you find one party recipe everyone loves, it’s always nice to have a few more ready to go.
Print
Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Awesome Sauce Party Meatballs are sweet, spicy, and ready in just 25 minutes. Made with frozen meatballs, honey mustard dressing, teriyaki sauce, and hot sauce, this bold appetizer is always the first to disappear at parties. Perfect for tailgating, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 cup honey mustard dressing
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s)
3 pounds frozen meatballs
Instructions
In a Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium heat, combine honey mustard dressing, teriyaki sauce, and hot sauce. Stir until smooth.
Add frozen meatballs directly to the pot (no need to thaw).
Stir to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and coated in thick, glossy sauce.
Slow Cooker Option:
Whisk together honey mustard dressing, teriyaki sauce, and hot sauce in a bowl.
Place frozen meatballs in a 6-quart slow cooker.
Pour sauce over meatballs and stir gently.
Cook on LOW for 2–3 hours. Keep on warm for serving.
Notes
These meatballs have a definite kick. Reduce hot sauce to ½ cup if you prefer milder heat, then add more gradually to taste.
No need to thaw frozen meatballs before cooking.
You can use beef or turkey meatballs.
Smaller (½-ounce) meatballs work best for parties.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave, stovetop, or covered in the oven until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5–6 meatballs
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg