Crockpot Coca-Cola Meatballs
Posts may contain affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a commission if you use a link provided.
If you’re looking for the easiest appetizer ever, these crockpot Coca-Cola meatballs are your answer. Just toss three ingredients into your slow cooker, and a few hours later, you’ve got sweet, sticky, crowd-pleasing glazed meatballs. No oven, no fuss.

The Coke adds a subtle sweetness and a glossy glaze that clings perfectly to each bite. As it cooks down with the BBQ sauce, it thickens into a rich, sticky coating and adds depth to the flavor.
These cola meatballs are ideal for serving with toothpicks at a holiday potluck or as a quick weeknight dinner and they’re one of my favorite crockpot recipes for game day when I want something easy for a crowd.

If you’re a fan of recipes made with Coca-Cola, don’t miss my Coca Cola Fudge and Double Chocolate Coca Cola Cake!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Only 3 ingredients. Meatballs, BBQ sauce, and Coke.
- Hands-off cooking. The slow cooker handles everything.
- Perfect for parties. Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Budget-friendly. Great for feeding a crowd.
- Versatile. Serve the saucy meatballs an appetizer or turn into a meal.
Ingredient Notes
This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

- Frozen Meatballs: Use fully cooked, cocktail-size meatballs. No need to thaw first. You can make homemade meatballs if you prefer, just keep in mind that they will take less time to heat through than frozen meatballs.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or flavor. We like Sweet Baby Ray’s.
- Coca-Cola: Use regular Coke (not diet) for the best sweetness and caramelization.
How to Make Slow Cooker Coca Cola Meatballs
This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below.

This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below.
- Add frozen meatballs to your slow cooker.
- Pour in BBQ sauce and coke.
- Stir to coat evenly. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Serve warm, right from the crockpot or transfer to a serving bowl. Serve with toothpicks.

Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm on the stovetop over low heat.
Tips for Success
- Use frozen meatballs straight from the bag—no thawing needed.
- Stick with regular Coca-Cola, not zero sugar or diet soda.
- Use the “keep warm” setting on your crock pot if serving at a party.
How to Make it a Meal
These glazed meatballs aren’t just for parties. Try these simple serving ideas to turn them into a main dish:
- Spoon over steamed white rice, egg noodles, or pasta.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans.
- Tuck into toasted sandwich rolls for meatball subs.
Additions and Variations
- Spicy: Add hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or sriracha.
- Smoky: Try hickory BBQ sauce or a splash of liquid smoke or worcestershire sauce.
- Sweet-savory: Add canned pineapple chunks before cooking.
- Try another soda: Root beer, Dr Pepper, or cherry Coke also work.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced scallions or chopped parsley for a fresh finish before serving.
- Grape jelly meatballs: Craving that classic combo? Try my grape jelly BBQ sauce meatballs

More Easy 3-Ingredient Appetizers

Crockpot Coca-Cola Meatballs
Ingredients
- 28 ounce frozen meatballs, cocktail size
- 18 ounce barbecue sauce
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
Instructions
- Add frozen meatballs, BBQ sauce, and Coca-Cola to crockpot. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, or until meatballs are heated through.
- Set to warm and stir before serving.
Notes
Nutrition

Did You Make This Recipe?
Share it with me on Instagram @crayonsandcravings and follow on Pinterest @crayonsandcravings for even more!
This recipe was originally published on 9/23/2019 and was updated on 12/21/2025 with new photos, helpful tips, and storage information. Below is one of the photos from the original post.






Could you slow cook these in the oven
I haven’t tried making these in the oven but I don’t see why you couldn’t! I would probably simmer the sauce ingredients on the stovetop first to help incorporate those flavors before adding the meatballs and sauce to a pan or casserole dish to heat up in the oven.
What can you use Coke zero?
I think that would be fine
can I use coke cherry?
I haven’t tried the recipe with cherry coke myself but I don’t see why not 🙂 Please come back to let us know how it comes out if you do decide to give it a try!