Korean Slow-Cooked Short Ribs

The deep, rich flavor of Korean braised short ribs, slow-cooked to perfection, offers an irresistible blend of sweet, salty, and umami in every bite. Paired with tender carrots and baby potatoes, it’s a full meal in one pot that satisfies both the stomach and soul. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or weekend gatherings—just a few steps and your slow cooker transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner. Serve it over fluffy white rice, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and finish with sliced green onions for a stunning, mouthwatering presentation.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

Main

1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) bone-in beef short ribs
500 g (18 oz) baby potatoes, rinsed
300 g (11 oz) carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
Green onions (optional), thinly sliced
Toasted sesame seeds (optional), for garnish

Sauce

1 red apple or pear (Asian or Williams), cored and chopped (170 g / 6 oz)
1/2 onion (60 g / 2 oz), chopped
1/2 cup beef stock
1/2 cup soy sauce (regular, such as Kikkoman)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp rice wine (mirin)
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp sesame oil
5 whole black peppercorns

Thickener

2 Tbsp corn starch (or potato starch)
2 Tbsp water

Directions:

Rinse short ribs under cold water, especially around the bone to remove bone fragments. Pat dry with paper towels.
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs on all sides for about 1 minute each. Transfer browned ribs to the slow cooker.
In a blender or food processor, blend all sauce ingredients until smooth. Pour over the ribs in the slow cooker.
Add potatoes and carrots to the pot. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours. (HIGH for 5 hours works, but results may vary.)
30 minutes before finishing, mix starch with water to form a slurry. Add to the cooker and switch heat to HIGH to thicken the sauce.
(Optional) Remove excess fat from sauce using a fat separator or refrigerate and skim solidified fat later.
Serve ribs over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 hours | Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 199 kcal | Servings: 4–6 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

If you’re searching for a delicious, family-friendly meal that practically cooks itself, Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are a standout option. This recipe blends the sweet-savory taste of teriyaki sauce with tender, juicy meatballs — all made effortlessly in your crockpot. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family on a busy weeknight, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish hits the mark every time.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about this comforting and versatile dish.

A Brief History of Teriyaki

The term “teriyaki” comes from Japan, where “teri” refers to the glaze or shine that the sauce gives the food, and “yaki” means to grill or broil. Traditionally, Japanese teriyaki is made by grilling meats or fish while brushing them with a soy-based sauce. However, the Western adaptation — particularly in the United States — often includes a sweeter profile and is commonly used as a marinade or simmering sauce for a variety of proteins.

Teriyaki meatballs, while not a traditional Japanese dish, are a fusion creation that marries classic American comfort food (meatballs) with the umami-rich flavor of teriyaki sauce. The result? A delicious, globally inspired dish that’s perfect for today’s multicultural tables.

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Teriyaki Meatballs?

The beauty of the slow cooker lies in its convenience and ability to bring out rich, deep flavors. Cooking meatballs slowly in a teriyaki glaze allows the sauce to penetrate deeply, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Some key benefits of using a slow cooker for this recipe include:

Hands-Off Cooking: Just add your ingredients and let the slow cooker do its thing.
Enhanced Flavor: The low-and-slow method allows the flavors of the sauce to fully develop.
Tender Texture: Meatballs become incredibly juicy and soft after simmering for hours.
Time Saver: Ideal for busy weekdays, hosting, or batch cooking.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

While you can make teriyaki meatballs completely from scratch, many recipes allow for shortcuts that make the process even easier. Here’s a look at common ingredients used:

Meatballs: Store-bought frozen meatballs work well for speed and convenience, but homemade ones made from ground beef, pork, chicken, or turkey offer full customization.
Teriyaki Sauce: You can use store-bought sauce or make your own using soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, mirin (rice wine), and cornstarch.
Optional Add-ins: Pineapple chunks, green onions, sesame seeds, or bell peppers can be added for more flavor and texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Depending on how you prepare them, teriyaki meatballs can be both flavorful and nutritious. Here’s why they can be a smart addition to your weekly menu:

High Protein: Meatballs provide a great source of protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer.
Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of teriyaki sauce pairs well with savory meat, offering a satisfying flavor profile without excessive added fat.
Customizable: Choose lean meats like turkey or chicken, and opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt intake.
Meal Prep-Friendly: These meatballs store well, making them excellent for weekly meal plans.

Occasions Perfect for Teriyaki Meatballs

This dish isn’t just for dinners! Its versatility makes it suitable for many different occasions:

Game Day Parties: Serve them as appetizers with toothpicks.
Family Dinners: Pair with rice or noodles for a satisfying main dish.
Potlucks: Keep them warm in the slow cooker and let guests serve themselves.
Meal Prep: Portion them with steamed veggies and grains for easy weekday lunches.

Serving Suggestions

One of the reasons this dish is so beloved is because it pairs well with so many sides. Here are a few popular ways to enjoy slow cooker teriyaki meatballs:

Over Steamed Rice: Classic and comforting.
With Noodles: Try soba or lo mein noodles tossed in extra sauce.
Alongside Stir-Fried Veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers all work beautifully.
In a Wrap or Sub: Turn leftovers into a teriyaki meatball sandwich for lunch.
On Skewers: Perfect for parties or backyard BBQs.

Variations to Try

Like most beloved dishes, teriyaki meatballs offer endless customization options. Here are a few ideas to inspire your own version:

Spicy Teriyaki: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Pineapple Teriyaki: Stir in pineapple chunks for tropical sweetness.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meatballs or tempeh.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and make homemade meatballs with GF breadcrumbs.
Asian Fusion Twist: Add a splash of sesame oil and top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your teriyaki meatballs turn out perfect every time? Follow these expert tips:

Don’t Overcook: If using precooked frozen meatballs, 2–3 hours on LOW is usually enough.
Thicken the Sauce: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) at the end if your sauce is too thin.
Stir Occasionally: To coat the meatballs evenly, give them a gentle stir halfway through cooking.
Add Veggies Last: If adding vegetables, toss them in halfway through so they stay crisp-tender.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Among the many meatball recipes out there, slow cooker teriyaki meatballs truly shine for several reasons:

Simplicity: With minimal prep and easy ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
Flavor Impact: The teriyaki sauce provides a deep, umami flavor that’s universally loved.
Convenience: Set-it-and-forget-it meals are priceless in today’s fast-paced world.
Versatility: Whether served as a main, snack, or appetizer, these meatballs are always a hit.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters tend to enjoy the sweet and savory profile.

FAQs About Teriyaki Meatballs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well.

What meat works best?
Ground beef and pork are popular, but ground turkey and chicken are excellent lean alternatives.

Is teriyaki sauce healthy?
Store-bought versions can be high in sugar and sodium, but homemade teriyaki lets you control the ingredients and make it healthier.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! Pair with rice and steamed vegetables and store in portioned containers for quick lunches or dinners.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
A cornstarch slurry added toward the end of cooking will thicken the sauce without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs are more than just an easy recipe — they’re a delicious, versatile, and dependable solution for countless mealtime scenarios. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, stocking your fridge with meal-prepped lunches, or searching for a crowd-pleasing party dish, these savory-sweet meatballs deliver every time. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy tender meatballs bathed in a glossy teriyaki glaze with almost no effort. Try this recipe once, and you’ll understand why it deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.