Crock Pot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
These Crock Pot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs are a perfect game day snack or easy party appetizer. With tender meatballs coated in a tangy buffalo ranch sauce, they’re both flavorful and effortless to prepare. Just set it and forget it in the slow cooker!
Ingredients
- 32 ounce bag frozen homestyle meatballs
- 1 ounce packet ranch seasoning
- 2 cups Frank’s Red Hot buffalo wing sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for serving)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the frozen homestyle meatballs to the crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the top.
- Step 2: Pour the buffalo wing sauce over the meatballs and ranch seasoning.
- Step 3: Stir gently to combine the ingredients and coat the meatballs with the sauce.
- Step 4: Place the lid on the crock pot. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
- Step 5: After cooking, keep the meatballs on warm for up to 3 hours if needed.
- Step 6: Before serving, optionally top with sliced green onions and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Use homemade meatballs for a fresher taste, or try turkey meatballs for a lighter version.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spiciness to your preference.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the ranch seasoning before cooking.
Storage
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh meatballs can be used. Since they are not frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they are heated through before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or substitute it with a milder hot sauce. Serving with ranch or blue cheese dressing also helps balance the heat.
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Crock Pot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 4-6 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6–8 servings 1x
Description
These Crock Pot Buffalo Ranch Meatballs combine frozen homestyle meatballs with bold buffalo wing sauce and ranch seasoning for an easy, flavorful appetizer or meal. Slow-cooked in a crock pot, the meatballs become tender and perfectly infused with spicy, tangy flavors. Served with optional green onions and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, this recipe is perfect for game day, parties, or a casual weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meatballs and Sauce
- 32 ounce bag frozen homestyle meatballs
- 1 ounce packet ranch seasoning
- 2 cups Frank’s Red Hot buffalo wing sauce
Optional Toppings and Serving
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Meatballs: Place the entire 32-ounce bag of frozen homestyle meatballs into the crock pot, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
- Add Seasoning and Sauce: Sprinkle the 1-ounce packet of ranch seasoning evenly over the meatballs, then pour 2 cups of Frank’s Red Hot buffalo wing sauce on top.
- Combine: Use a spoon to gently stir the meatballs, ranch seasoning, and buffalo sauce together until the meatballs are well coated.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. After cooking, you can keep the crock pot on the warm setting for up to 3 additional hours to keep the meatballs hot and ready to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle sliced green onions over the meatballs and serve alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Using frozen homestyle meatballs saves time and keeps the texture tender after slow cooking.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce to taste depending on your spice preference.
- Ranch seasoning packet can usually be found in the salad dressing or seasoning aisle at most grocery stores.
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate.
- These meatballs can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the crock pot on low.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-4 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Buffalo meatballs, crock pot meatballs, buffalo ranch meatballs, party appetizer, slow cooker recipes, easy buffalo chicken appetizer
