crock pot meatballs recipe

crock pot meatballs recipe

The Best crock pot meatballs recipe

I’m a huge fan of this crock pot meatballs recipe, and it’s a staple in my household. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they’re always excited to see the finished product.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort on my part.

I can just toss all the ingredients into the crock pot and let it do its magic while I’m busy with other tasks. The result is a delicious, tender, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies in without even realizing it – the onions and bell peppers add so much flavor without overpowering the meatballs.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – by using lean ground turkey and reducing the amount of sauce used, we’re cutting down on calories and saturated fat. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a hassle-free, nutritious meal option.

It’s also great for meal prep, as you can make a big batch of meatballs on the weekend and use them throughout the week in different ways – like serving them over rice or adding them to soups and stews.

Crock Pot Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Crock Pot Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

4.6 from 1367 votes

Tender meatballs slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal with pasta or crusty bread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 clove garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4Form the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6Drizzle with olive oil.
7Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
8In the crock pot, combine tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, oregano, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
9Stir well to combine.
10Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged.
11Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
12The meatballs are done when they are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
13Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
14Serve the meatballs hot, with the sauce spooned over the top.
15Pair with pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet with parchment paper
Crock pot
Spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Works

This crock pot meatballs recipe is always a good idea whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up in the microwave or oven until hot through out.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Q: What type of meat is best for this recipe?

A: You can use either ground beef or ground turkey – both work well depending on your personal preference. If you want a more traditional meatball taste, go with beef. If you’re looking for a leaner option or want to reduce the amount of saturated fat in your diet, turkey is the way to go.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep – simply prepare all the ingredients, place them in the crock pot, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing for later use.

Q: Do I need to add any additional seasonings to this recipe?

A: No additional seasonings are needed – just stick with what’s listed in the recipe for a classic flavor profile. However, feel free to get creative and add your own favorite herbs or spices if you prefer!

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen vegetables in this recipe?

A: Both work well! If using frozen veggies, just thaw them first before adding them to the crock pot. As for fresh veggies, chop them up finely so they cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Unfortunately no – this recipe does contain meatballs made from ground beef or turkey.

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