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Crockpot Meatballs Recipe

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4 from 7 reviews

This Crockpot Meatballs recipe offers a comforting and easy way to enjoy tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy days, the slow cooker does all the work, resulting in juicy meatballs that can be served over your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • pounds lean ground beef
  • ⅓ cup Italian bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup finely diced onion
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce

  • 1 (28 ounce) can canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 24 ounces pasta sauce (or marinara sauce)
  • 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, finely diced onion, chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly. Using a tablespoon, form the mixture into 24 evenly sized meatballs.
  3. Place meatballs in slow cooker: Arrange the uncooked meatballs in the bottom of the prepared slow cooker in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  4. Prepare and add sauce: In a separate bowl, mix canned diced tomatoes with juices, pasta or marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Pour the sauce evenly over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
  5. Cook meatballs: Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours until meatballs are fully cooked and tender, and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
  6. Serve: Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked pasta of your choice for a complete, hearty meal.

Notes

  • For a lower fat option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Meatballs can be formed ahead and frozen for quick meals later.
  • Cooking on low for 6-7 hours works well if you prefer to start the slow cooker in the morning.
  • Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.