Crockpot Meatball Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This recipe for crockpot meatballs is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, produces incredibly flavorful meatballs, and requires minimal cleanup. Perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even meal prepping for the week ahead!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferred spice levels and meat choices. Feel free to experiment!
- 1.5 lbs ground beef: You can substitute or combine with ground turkey, pork, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the meatballs perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Another classic herb that enhances the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: To taste.
- 24 ounces your favorite jarred pasta sauce: Marinara, arrabbiata, or even a creamy tomato sauce work well.
Instructions: Slow Cooker Magic!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Form Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Slow Cooker Time: Place the meatballs in your slow cooker. Pour the pasta sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they're mostly submerged.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve it Up!: Serve the meatballs over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a little heat.
- Cheese Please: Add some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking.
Why This Crockpot Meatball Recipe is a Winner:
- Effortless: Minimal prep and cleanup.
- Flavorful: The slow cooking process develops deep, rich flavors.
- Versatile: Serve it in many ways to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
This crockpot meatball recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!
