Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Meatballs are a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy days. These tender, flavorful meatballs simmer in rich marinara sauce, making them ideal for serving with pasta or as a hearty sandwich filling.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb. ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 large egg (slightly beaten)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic (finely diced)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
• ½ cup minced onion
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup parsley
• 56 oz. marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gently combine all the meatball ingredients in a large bowl, being careful not to overwork the mixture for tender results.
2. Step 2: Use a tablespoon to scoop the meat mixture and roll into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Step 3: Lightly grease the bottom of the slow cooker and place the meatballs inside. It’s fine to stack them.
4. Step 4: Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, no need to stir.
5. Step 5: Cook on high for 2½ to 3 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours. Make sure the meatballs are cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. Step 6: Gently stir the meatballs and sauce a few times before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture.
• Try substituting ground beef with a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added to enhance the marinara sauce.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatballs with sauce for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes on high or 1 hour on low to ensure they are heated through.

Do I need to brown the meatballs before slow cooking?

No, browning is optional. While it adds extra flavor and a firmer texture, you can cook them directly in the slow cooker for convenience.

Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 51 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (high) or 6 hours 15 minutes (low)
• Yield: About 20 meatballs (serves 6-8) 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Meatballs recipe yields tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, perfect for an easy and comforting meal. The meatballs are made from a mix of ground beef, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, then slow-cooked to perfection, making dinner both effortless and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1.5 lb. ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 large egg (slightly beaten)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic (finely diced)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or Plain)
• ½ cup minced onion
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup parsley

Sauce

• 56 oz. marinara sauce

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Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Gently combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl, taking care not to overwork the meat to ensure tender meatballs.
2. Form Meatballs: Use a tablespoon to scoop up the meat mixture and roll into balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking, then place the meatballs inside, stacking them if necessary.
4. Add Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs without stirring to keep them intact during cooking.
5. Cook Meatballs: Cook on high heat for 2½ to 3 hours or on low heat for 5 to 6 hours. Check to ensure the meatballs are thoroughly cooked, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. Finish and Serve: Gently stir the meatballs and sauce a few times before serving to combine flavors.

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach 160°F for safety.
• You can prepare the meatballs ahead and freeze before cooking.
• Serve with pasta, bread, or as a meatball sub sandwich.
• If desired, brown meatballs in a skillet before slow cooking for extra flavor, although this step is optional.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: slow cooker meatballs, easy meatballs, Italian meatballs, comfort food, marinara sauce