Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal, this easy slow cooker meatballs recipe is perfect for you. Whether youβre preparing a comforting dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these meatballs come together effortlessly with just a few basic ingredients and a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can also use a blend of beef and pork for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup water (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 20-25 meatballs, depending on the size.
- For even-sized meatballs, you can use a small cookie scoop or ice cream scoop.
- Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended):
- To add extra flavor and a nice texture, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. This step is optional, but it helps lock in the juices and adds a nice caramelized exterior.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. If you skip this step, just place the raw meatballs directly into the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix the marinara sauce with water and dried basil if using. This will help thin out the sauce and infuse it with more flavor.
- Slow Cook the Meatballs:
- Pour the sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the meatballs on top of the sauce, ensuring they are mostly covered by the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs are done when they are cooked through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve:
- Once the meatballs are fully cooked, gently stir them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve the meatballs over pasta, in sub rolls for meatball sandwiches, or alongside a salad for a lighter option.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Tips:
- For Juicier Meatballs: Consider adding a tablespoon of milk or a bit of grated onion to the meat mixture to keep them moist.
- For Flavor Variation: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
- Make-Ahead: These meatballs freeze well. Simply freeze them after cooking and thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
This easy slow cooker meatballs recipe is a surefire way to make a meal that’s both satisfying and simple. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort!
