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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Gently combine all meatball ingredients in a large bowl, taking care not to overwork the meat to ensure tender meatballs.
- Form Meatballs: Use a tablespoon to scoop up the meat mixture and roll into balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking, then place the meatballs inside, stacking them if necessary.
- Add Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs without stirring to keep them intact during cooking.
- 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.
- 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
