Save to Pinterest Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara offer a perfect blend of tender, juicy meatballs simmered slowly in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Ideal for housewarmings and festive gatherings, this Italian-American classic brings warmth and comfort with minimal effort, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work while you enjoy time with friends and family.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is designed to be approachable for cooks of all levels, requiring just simple ingredients and everyday kitchen tools. Whether served on toothpicks at a party or ladled over spaghetti for dinner, these meatballs bring authentic Italian-American comfort to your table.
Ingredients
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- For the Meatballs
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20)
- ½ lb (225 g) ground pork
- ½ cup (50 g) Italian breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 (24 oz / 680 g) jars marinara sauce (or 6 cups homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, milk, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- 2.
- Shape mixture into 1½-inch (4 cm) balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 3.
- Optional: For firmer meatballs, broil on high for 3–4 minutes, turning once, until lightly browned. This step adds flavor but can be skipped.
- 4.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- 5.
- Add sautéed onion and garlic, marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- 6.
- Gently nestle the meatballs into the sauce in the slow cooker.
- 7.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours (or HIGH for 2 hours), until meatballs are cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C).
- 8.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure juicy meatballs, mix ingredients gently without overworking the meat. The optional broiling step adds a beautifully browned crust that enhances texture and flavor. Simmering slowly in the marinara lets the herbs and cheese infuse the meat, making each bite deliciously tender.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork blend. Omit the crushed red pepper flakes to keep it mild, or add more if you prefer extra heat. Homemade marinara sauce can be used to customize flavor and freshness.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing, or pile them over cooked spaghetti for a classic Italian-American main dish. They pair perfectly with garlic bread and a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti for an authentic dining experience.
Save to Pinterest With simple preparation and comforting flavors, these slow cooker meatballs make entertaining effortless. Whether you're warming hearts at a housewarming or nourishing family dinner, they deliver satisfaction in every tender, savory bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What types of meat are best for these meatballs?
A mixture of ground beef and pork provides the best flavor and tenderness. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken can be used.
- → Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs and store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them for longer storage before cooking.
- → Is broiling the meatballs necessary before slow cooking?
Broiling adds color and firmer texture but is optional. The slow cooker will fully cook and tenderize the meatballs without this step.
- → How can I tell when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meat should be firm and no longer pink inside.
- → What dishes pair well with these marinara meatballs?
They go well with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti complements the flavors nicely.
