Slow Cooker Meatballs:

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There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of a hearty, slow-cooked meal. These slow cooker meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for busy days when you want a delicious dinner without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork (or substitute ground turkey/chicken)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Instructions

    1. Prepare the Meatballs:
      • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
      • Roll the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
    2. Optional: Brown the Meatballs (for extra flavor):
      • Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear them on all sides until browned. This step is optional but enhances flavor and helps the meatballs hold their shape in the slow cooker.
    3. Prepare the Sauce:
      • In the slow cooker, stir together the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, sugar, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
    4. Combine:
      • Gently place the meatballs into the sauce in the slow cooker. Make sure they’re fully submerged in the sauce.
    5. Cook:
      • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
    6. Serve:
      • Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve over spaghetti, in a hoagie roll, or enjoy them on their own!

      • ips:

        • For even more flavor, add a splash of red wine or a Parmesan rind to the sauce while cooking.
        • These meatballs freeze beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

        Enjoy the comforting aroma and taste of homemade slow cooker meatballs!

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