slow cooker meatball recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker meatball recipe
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The Best slow cooker meatball recipe

I love this slow cooker meatball recipe because it’s so easy to make and is perfect for a weeknight dinner. My family loves it too, and it’s a great way to get everyone to eat their veggies. The best part is that it’s made in the slow cooker, so I can just throw all the ingredients in and let it cook while I’m busy with other things.

This recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and I’ve made it for countless family gatherings and potlucks. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style, and it’s also a great way to get your kids to eat healthy by sneaking in some finely chopped veggies. My kids have always loved helping me make this recipe, and they’re old enough now to even take over making it on their own.

It’s a great way to teach them about cooking and meal prep. The health benefits of this recipe are numerous – the lean beef and pork mix is high in protein, the veggies add fiber and vitamins, and the sauce is low in sugar. Plus, using lean meat means less fat is added to the dish.

Overall, this slow cooker meatball recipe is a winner in our household. I’ve served it with pasta, rice, or even as a sub sandwich filling. It’s versatile and delicious every time.

The flavors are rich and savory, with just the right amount of sweetness from the tomatoes. It’s also a great way to get rid of any leftover bread or pasta – just serve it over some crusty bread or with some garlic knots on the side.

Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

4.8 from 1410 votes

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

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time8 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hrs 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: 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

For the Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
4In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
6Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
7Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
8Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
10Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
11Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meatballs are tender and cooked through.
12Stir gently halfway through cooking if desired.
13Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter.
14Spoon the sauce over the meatballs and serve with crusty bread or over pasta.
15Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Slow cooker

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a combination of ground beef and pork for a different flavor profile.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Works

This slow cooker meatball recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just need something quick and easy for dinner. You can serve it as an appetizer or main course, depending on your needs.

To store leftover meatballs, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days – or freeze them for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure they’re steaming hot before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

1

What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use either ground beef or ground pork – or a combination of both. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can also use ground turkey or chicken.

2

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing all the ingredients and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

3

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

To prevent the meatballs from falling apart, make sure to not overmix the meat mixture after adding the breadcrumbs.

4

Can I serve this recipe as an appetizer?

This recipe makes great appetizers – just serve them on toothpicks or small skewers with a dipping sauce.

5

How do I store leftover meatballs?

You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days – or freeze them for up to 2 months.

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