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Delicious slow cooker meatballs served in a rich sauce.

Slow Cooker Meatballs

Delicious and juicy meatballs cooked in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese + more for serving
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (see note)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste Pepper
For the Sauce
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh basil
  • Cooked pasta (optional, to taste)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add the sauce ingredients to your slow cooker and stir thoroughly, ensuring everything is well combined.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the meatball ingredients gently with your hands. Form about 20 (2-inch) meatballs with a light touch.
  3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker, even if some overlap. Don't worry; they will cook perfectly.
  4. Gently spoon the sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are nicely covered for even cooking.
Cooking
  1. Cover and let the slow cooker do its magic—cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F.
Serving
  1. Serve your meatballs with cooked pasta or as you prefer, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

For healthier alternatives, consider using ground turkey or chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently before serving.