Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs: Simple Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)

Effortless slow cooker meatballs simmer in a rich sauce, making weeknight dinners simple and delicious. Perfect for busy families or meal prep.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 360 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 380 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ The Hearty Meatball Foundation

01 - 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 recommended)
02 - 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
03 - 1 large egg

→ Aromatic Enhancers

04 - 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ The Rich Simmering Sauce

10 - 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
11 - 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
12 - 1/2 cup beef broth
13 - 1 tbsp light brown sugar
14 - 1 tsp dried basil
15 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
16 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
17 - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

→ Fresh Finishers

18 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef, 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined for your Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe.
02 - Gently roll the meat mixture into approximately 1.5-inch diameter meatballs. This recipe yields about 20-24 meatballs. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking in the slow cooker, making them perfect for your Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe.
03 - Pour 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp light brown sugar, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce into your slow cooker. Stir well to combine the rich sauce.
04 - Carefully arrange the formed meatballs in a single layer within the slow cooker, nestling them into the prepared sauce. Ensure they are mostly submerged to absorb all the delicious flavors as they cook to perfection.
05 - Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours, or on HIGH for 3 hours. The long, slow simmer is key to tender, flavorful results for this Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe, ensuring they are cooked through and infused with sauce.
06 - Once cooked, serve your delicious meatballs hot over pasta, in subs, or with a side of crusty bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish and an extra touch of freshness.

# Notes:

01 - For a different flavor profile, try using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. You can also substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
02 - For extra flavor and a firmer exterior, you can quickly brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but highly recommended!
03 - Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
04 - These versatile meatballs are fantastic over spaghetti, polenta, mashed potatoes, or even tucked into a toasted hoagie roll with melted provolone for a delicious meatball sub.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Slow cooker
02 - Large mixing bowl
03 - Measuring cups
04 - Measuring spoons
05 - Cutting board
06 - Chef's knife

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 396 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 17 g
Protein: 34 g

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