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Crockpot Appetizer Recipes

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Crockpot Appetizer Recipes: Buffalo Chicken & Teriyaki Meatballs for Easy Party Snacks

There’s something comforting about a warm, bubbling crockpot sitting on the counter while you get other things done. I remember my first college party when I borrowed my roommate’s slow cooker and came back to find a crowd gathered around a pot of spicy buffalo chicken dip — everyone kept asking who made it. Since then, crockpot appetizers have been my go-to for gatherings because they’re effortless, crowd-pleasing, and let me actually enjoy the party instead of hovering over the stove. The slow cooker itself has roots in mid-20th-century home economics, gaining popularity as busy families looked for no-fuss ways to cook — and that spirit of simplicity is exactly what these recipes bring to your table.

Crockpot Appetizer Recipes

Who is this recipe for?

  • This recipe is perfect for busy parents, party hosts, tailgate organizers, and anyone who loves hands-off cooking with big flavor.

Core ingredients overview:

  • This post features two classic crockpot appetizers: buffalo chicken dip made with 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup buffalo sauce, 1 cup cream cheese, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; and teriyaki meatballs made with 1 cup teriyaki sauce poured over 1 pound meatballs. Together they give you spicy, creamy, and sweet-salty options for every guest.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools (you’ll need):

  • Crockpot / slow cooker (large enough for both recipes)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
  • Ladle or serving spoon
  • Serving dish or warming tray
  • Optional: slow cooker liners for easy cleanup

Ingredients (with short benefits):

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – lean protein that soaks up sauces and keeps the dip hearty
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce – adds spicy, tangy flavor that’s bold and crowd-pleasing
  • 1 cup cream cheese – creates a rich, creamy base and smooth texture
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – adds sharpness, melt-in-your-mouth gooeyness, and color
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce – provides sweet-savory, umami-rich glaze for meatballs
  • 1 pound meatballs – convenient protein that pairs perfectly with sauce for easy serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the buffalo chicken dip.

    • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup buffalo sauce, 1 cup cream cheese (softened), and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
    • Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and spread it evenly.
    • Cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring once about halfway through, until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted.
    • Keep on warm for serving and stir before placing on the table.

  2. Prepare the teriyaki meatballs.

    • Place 1 pound meatballs (frozen or freshly prepared) in the crockpot in a single layer if possible.
    • Pour 1 cup teriyaki sauce evenly over the meatballs so they’re well coated.
    • Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened.
    • Stir gently to coat the meatballs with sauce before serving.

  3. Serving suggestions.

    • Serve buffalo chicken dip with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or sliced baguette.
    • Serve teriyaki meatballs with toothpicks or on a platter over rice or small slider rolls for guests.
Crockpot Appetizer Recipes

Crockpot Appetizer Recipes

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze these recipes?
A: Yes. For the buffalo chicken dip, cool completely, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the crockpot on LOW until warmed. Teriyaki meatballs can be frozen cooked or uncooked; if frozen cooked, thaw and reheat in the crockpot on LOW until heated.

Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese in the buffalo dip?
A: You can substitute an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter dip — texture will be slightly less rich but still creamy.

Q: Can I make both recipes in one crockpot at the same time?
A: It’s not recommended because they require different cooking times and flavors can mingle. Use two crockpots or cook one ahead and keep it warm while the other cooks.

Q: Are there vegetarian alternatives?
A: For the buffalo dip, swap shredded chicken for shredded jackfruit or extra beans and use vegetarian buffalo sauce. For meatballs, use plant-based meatballs with the same teriyaki method.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a slow cooker liner or spray the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to make cleanup fast and easy.
  • If your meatballs are frozen, add an extra 30–60 minutes to the cooking time or set to HIGH for the first hour to ensure they fully heat through.
  • For extra creaminess in the buffalo dip, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of ranch or blue cheese dressing when everything is melted.
  • Keep a spoon and small plate nearby for guests to taste and to prevent double-dipping when serving at a party.

Conclusion

Looking for more inspiration for party-ready dishes? Check out this collection of 40+ Slow Cooker Party Recipes Guaranteed to Wow for additional crowd-pleasers. If you love the sweet-savory vibe of the teriyaki meatballs, try this take on Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs – Culinary Hill for another simple sauce-and-meatball combo. And if you want to expand your dip repertoire, this Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy classic that pairs perfectly with the buffalo and teriyaki options.

Enjoy these easy crockpot appetizers with friends and family

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