Slow Cooker Meatball Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals
Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and meatballs are a versatile dish that’s perfect for slow cooking. This post will explore several delicious and easy slow cooker meatball recipes, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. We’ll cover variations, tips for success, and serving suggestions to help you create a truly memorable meal.
Classic Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The key is using high-quality ingredients and letting the slow cooker work its magic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also add ground pork or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 24 oz jar of your favorite marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your slow cooker to low.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the slow cooker.
- Gently place the meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they're not overcrowded.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve over pasta, with crusty bread, or as a filling for subs.
Spicy Slow Cooker Meatballs with a Kick
For those who prefer a little heat, this recipe adds a spicy twist to the classic.
Ingredients:
- All ingredients from the Classic Slow Cooker Meatballs recipe
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
Follow the instructions for the Classic Slow Cooker Meatballs recipe, adding the jalapeños, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Meatballs:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Leave some space between the meatballs to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the meatballs to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your meatballs and your slow cooker.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes. A cornstarch slurry can also help.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve your slow cooker meatballs over your favorite pasta. Spaghetti, penne, and rigatoni all work well.
- Sub sandwiches: Use the meatballs as a filling for delicious and hearty subs.
- Over rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice.
- With crusty bread: Enjoy the meatballs with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- In a salad: Add the meatballs to a hearty salad for a protein boost.
These slow cooker meatball recipes are incredibly versatile and adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own unique variations. Enjoy!
