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Easy Slow Cooker Meatball Sliders for Halloween Potluck

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These easy slow cooker meatball sliders are the perfect Halloween potluck dish—tender, juicy meatballs in a sweet and tangy sauce, served on toasted slider buns with melted cheese. They’re set-it-and-forget-it simple, budget-friendly, and always a hit.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds frozen fully cooked meatballs (homestyle or Italian-style)
  • 12 ounces chili sauce (e.g., Heinz Chili Sauce)
  • 1 cup grape jelly
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 12–15 slider buns (e.g., Hawaiian rolls or brioche)
  • 6–8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese, halved
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chili sauce, grape jelly, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Add the meatballs to the slow cooker: Place frozen meatballs directly into a 4-6 quart slow cooker. Pour sauce over the top and gently stir to coat evenly.
  3. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until meatballs are heated through and sauce is thick and glossy. Stir gently halfway through.
  4. Toast the slider buns: About 15 minutes before serving, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Split buns in half and place cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush cut sides with melted butter. Toast for 5-7 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
  5. Assemble the sliders: Place bottom halves of toasted buns on a serving platter. Using a slotted spoon, place 1-2 meatballs on each bun. Top with a half-slice of cheese, then the top bun.
  6. Add finishing touches: Brush tops with additional melted butter if desired, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

Toasting the buns is crucial to prevent sogginess. For best flavor, make the meatballs and sauce a day ahead and reheat. If sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on HIGH for 15-20 minutes to reduce. If too thick, stir in a tablespoon of water or beef broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker meatball sliders, Halloween potluck, easy party food, meatball sliders, slow cooker appetizer

Find it online: https://bakebeam.com/easy-slow-cooker-meatball-sliders-for-halloween-potluck/