meatball slow cooker recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best meatball slow cooker recipe

I’m so excited to share this meatball slow cooker recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to prepare.

This recipe comes from my grandmother, who was an Italian immigrant. She would often make meatballs for our family gatherings, and this slow cooker method is a game-changer. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is tender, flavorful meatballs that are just like my grandmother used to make. Plus, the health benefits of using lean ground beef and fresh vegetables are a bonus. This recipe has become a favorite in our household, and I know your family will love it too.

The best part is that it’s so easy to customize with your favorite sauces or seasonings. My kids can’t get enough of the homemade marinara sauce I serve with it. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – this recipe makes plenty for future meals or lunches on-the-go.

It’s a win-win situation! With this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious homemade meatballs without breaking a sweat (or spending hours in the kitchen). I’ve also included some helpful tips below for those new to slow cooking or looking for inspiration.

Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

4.7 from 1453 votes

Tender meatballs slow cooked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound 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

For the Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
4Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5Repeat until all the mixture is used.
6Use your hands to gently shape the meatballs into a ball.
7They should feel firm but not too hard.
8In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
9Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
10Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
11This should take about 3-5 minutes.
12Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
13Stir well to combine.
14Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
15Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
16Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
17Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
18The meatballs should be tender and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
19The sauce should be thick and flavorful, with a rich aroma.
20Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter.
21Ladle the sauce over the meatballs.
22Serve the meatballs hot, with the sauce spooned over the top.
23Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
24Serve with crusty bread or pasta to soak up the sauce.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Slow cooker
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

This meatball slow cooker recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just want something easy for dinner.

It works well for family gatherings because everyone loves having their own personal portions of homemade meatballs.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it with marinara sauce like we do or try something new like BBQ sauce or garlic butter.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

1.

Q: What type of ground beef should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) as it will result in a more tender final product.

2.

Q: Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making my own?

A: While you can use frozen meatballs as a substitute, keep in mind that they might not have the same texture and flavor as homemade ones.

3.

Q: How do I store leftover meatballs?

A: To store leftover meatballs, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days stored this way.

4.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the meatball mixture?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even chopped vegetables like onions or carrots to create unique flavor profiles.

5.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a pressure cooker by reducing the cooking time significantly – about 10-15 minutes – but be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.

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