When the winter chill hits, you need something cozy. These Slow Cooker Meatballs are the answer to your cravings. They fill your home with a wonderful aroma all day long.
Dinner should be easy and soul-warming. This recipe delivers tender results with very little effort. You can set it and forget it while you go about your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. You spend twenty minutes in the morning and dinner is ready later. The slow cooking process makes the meat incredibly tender.
It is also very budget-friendly. We use simple staples you likely have in your pantry. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
Simple Method
Making these is as easy as mixing and rolling. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you.
You do not even need to brown the meat first. This shortcut saves time and keeps cleanup minimal. It is the ultimate hands-off meal for your family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
We use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor. These fresh ingredients create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 0.5 pound ground pork
- 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
Step-by-Step
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix by hand until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours (or Low for 6 to 8 hours) until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve warm over pasta or as an appetizer.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these golden meatballs over a big bowl of spaghetti. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for fun. They also make amazing meatball sub sandwiches.
For a lighter option, try them with zucchini noodles. Pair with a fresh side salad and garlic bread. It is the perfect comfort food meal for any night.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. These meatballs actually taste better the next day!
You can also freeze them for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick.
Recipe Tips
- Do not skip the milk because it keeps the meat moist.
- Avoid overmixing the meat so the meatballs stay tender.
- Use a cookie scoop to make them all the same size.
- Spray the slow cooker with oil for even easier cleanup.
- For a winter treat, serve these with creamy polenta.
- Always check the internal temperature for safety.
- Double the batch and freeze half for later.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the pork for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- In the spring, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe allergy-friendly.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can roll the meatballs the night before. Keep them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This makes your morning routine even faster.
Do I need to brown the meat first?
You do not need to brown them for this recipe. The slow cooker cooks them perfectly in the sauce. It keeps them soft and very juicy.
Will kids eat this?
Kids usually love these because they are soft and mild. You can even let them help roll the meatballs. It is a great family-friendly activity.
I hope these cozy meatballs bring your family together this winter. Give them a try and enjoy the easy cleanup. Happy cooking!
— Lidya
Slow Cooker Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 0.5 pound ground pork
- 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg , lightly beaten
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon sal t
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix by hand until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours (or Low for 6 to 8 hours) until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve warm over pasta or as an appetizer.
