Get ready to transform your kitchen into an Italian culinary paradise with the most mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth meatballs you've ever tasted! This incredibly simple slow cooker recipe will have your family begging for seconds, and the best part? It requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or just someone who loves delicious comfort food, these Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs are about to become your new go-to meal that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 jar marinara sauce, and salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Once the mixture is combined, shape it into meatballs, approximately 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 16-20 meatballs depending on the size.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is optional but will add extra flavor to your meatballs.
- After browning the meatballs, transfer them to the slow cooker. Pour the jar of marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours. If you are short on time, you can also set it to high and cook for about 3 hours, but low is recommended for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Once the cooking time is complete, check the meatballs for doneness. They should be cooked through and tender. If desired, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own, over pasta, or in a sub sandwich.
- Enjoy your delicious Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Sauce with family and friends!
Tips
- For the most tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Mix just until ingredients are combined to prevent tough meatballs.
- Optional browning step: While not mandatory, taking 5-7 minutes to brown the meatballs before slow cooking will add an extra layer of rich, caramelized flavor.
- Use fresh garlic if possible - it provides a more robust taste compared to pre-minced garlic.
- For a leaner option, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of ground meats.
- If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can remove the meatballs and reduce the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes.
- These meatballs freeze beautifully! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months for a quick future meal.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
