Simple Slow Cooker Meatballs: A Convenient and Delicious Recipe

Meatballs are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in many ways, from spaghetti and meatballs to meatball subs. Using a slow cooker to make meatballs simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through making simple slow cooker meatballs from scratch, providing tips for achieving the best results and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Benefits:

1. Easy and Convenient: The slow cooker does most of the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
2. Flavorful: Slow cooking enhances the flavors, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs.
3. Versatile: Serve the meatballs with pasta, in subs, or as an appetizer.
4. Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze for later use.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, eggs, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped basil, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir to mix well.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

1. Add the Meatballs to the Slow Cooker: Gently place the meatballs into the sauce in the slow cooker, making sure they are submerged in the sauce.
2. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle with additional chopped fresh basil or parsley.
2. Enjoy: Serve the meatballs hot with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Meatballs

1. Use a Mix of Meats

• Beef and Pork: Combining ground beef and ground pork adds flavor and keeps the meatballs moist and tender.

2. Don’t Overmix

• Light Mixing: Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

• Enhanced Flavor: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the sauce enhances their flavor.

Customizing Your Meatballs

Variations:

• Cheese-Stuffed: Insert a small cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro for unique flavors.

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• Pasta: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.
• Sub Sandwiches: Use the meatballs in a hoagie roll with melted mozzarella for a delicious meatball sub.
• Zoodles: For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.

Drinks:

• Red Wine: A robust red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the rich flavors of the meatballs.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing.

Dessert:

• Tiramisu: Finish the meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu.
• Gelato: A scoop of gelato is a refreshing way to end the meal.

Storing and Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave, covered, until hot.

Conclusion

Simple slow cooker meatballs are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. With tender and flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, in subs, or as an appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress. Enjoy!

Did you try this recipe? Share your experience and any customizations you made in the comments below!