Slow Cooker Meatballs

A comforting slow cooker dish that keeps meatballs tender and flavorful in marinara sauce, perfect for busy family dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian

Calories: 175

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

1 pound ground beef Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
1 large egg (beaten) A flax egg works well for a vegan version.
1/2 cup whole milk Use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Soy sauce can serve as a substitute.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Use a blend of dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt Adjust per diet needs.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Reduce if preferred.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic provides an extra kick.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder Diced fresh onions can be used instead.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs You can use crushed crackers or omit for gluten-free.
1/4 cup parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast serves as a vegan alternative.

Sauce Ingredients

24 ounces marinara sauce Use homemade or your favorite jarred kind.
14 ounces crushed tomatoes Diced tomatoes provide a sturdier texture.
1 tablespoon minced garlic Feel free to increase to personal taste.
1/2 whole onion (finely diced) Leeks or shallots work too.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Fresh herbs can enhance this dish.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt Adjust seasoning as per preference.
1/4 teaspoon pepper Additional seasoning for the sauce.

Method

Preparation

Combine the meatball ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until fully mixed.
Let the meat mixture sit while you prepare the sauce.

Cooking

Put the sauce ingredients in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Measure portions of the meat mixture using a tablespoon and form meatballs.
Place the meatballs into the sauce and stir to coat.
Cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.

Serving

Serve over your favorite pasta, spooning extra marinara sauce on top.

Notes

Let the meat mixture rest to enhance flavors. These meatballs can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge overnight. They freeze well for quick weeknight dinners.