For Sticky And Flavorful Slow Cooker Meatballs, Grab A Can Of This Soda

A slow cooker is always the way to go for an easy set-it-and-forget-it meal. Whether you're using it for a simple dinner or for trying out unusual slow cooker recipes, this cooking gadget is always reliable. Meatballs are a classic crock pot staple, and if you're in need of a creative recipe, there's one soda you need to add to them. Coca-Cola may be delicious as a beverage, but it also makes the perfect ingredient for sticky, glossy, and tasty meatballs. 

Coca-Cola isn't an uncommon ingredient in cooking — it gives meat a slightly sweet taste, and it's even great for adding flavor to a pot roast. When added to meatballs, the soda gives them a rich sweet-savory flavor, and it turns into a sticky sauce as it reduces. To make the most of this trick, take one can of Coca-Cola and use it with frozen meatballs (so they can withstand the long cook time), and a barbecue sauce of your choice (besides adding flavor, the sauce helps the soda turn into a thicker glaze). For the best results and flavor, a regular can of Coke is recommended. Then, add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let them cook on low for up to four hours, or up to three hours if it's on high. When they are ready to eat, the final result is a batch of caramelized meatballs that have the perfect sticky coating.

While the Coca-Cola meatball recipe is meant to be simple, there are some ways you can get creative and jazz up the flavors. You could try making your own homemade barbecue sauce for a more customized taste, or you could buy a flavored option, like hickory brown sugar, for a sweeter kick. If you're someone that likes heat, try adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes for some spice. You could even get creative with the soda you use, such as adding Dr. Pepper or root beer for a spicier or more herbaceous sweetness. If you have enough time, making the meatballs yourself is another option — just make sure to pan-fry them first so they don't fall apart. For a thicker sauce, let the meatballs cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to create a better glaze. 

These meatballs are great to eat alone as an appetizer, or you could turn them into a weeknight dinner by adding them over rice or to a meatball sub. Coca-Cola with your meatballs may sound like an unusual pairing, but the rich, sugared flavor and sticky texture the soda adds to the dish will be completely worth it.