Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs: Perfect for Busy Weeknights
These Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that practically make themselves. Prep them in just 20 minutes, toss everything in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen over the next 8 hours. The result? Juicy, tender meatballs swimming in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce—made with minimal effort on your part. It’s my go-to for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table without standing in front of the stove for hours.
I figured out this slow cooker method after countless nights of juggling work, errands, and a hungry family. Traditional meatballs can be a labor of love—rolling, browning, and simmering over the stove—but who really has time for all that? With this recipe, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you tackle the rest of your to-dos. Trust me, once you try this hands-off approach, you’ll never go back.
Why This Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe Is a Game-Changer
- Saves time: Traditional meatballs require browning in a pan, but this recipe skips that step without sacrificing flavor.
- Hands-free cooking: Set it and forget it! Let your slow cooker handle the work while you focus on other tasks.
- Rich, slow-simmered flavor: Cooking low and slow melds the sauce and meatballs into one savory, irresistible dish.
- Perfect texture: The slow cooking method guarantees juicy, tender meatballs every time.
- Family-friendly: It’s a dish everyone loves, and leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need for This Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe
The only essential tool here is your slow cooker. I recommend a 6-quart model to comfortably fit all the meatballs and sauce. Here are a few quick tips to ensure perfect results:
- Slow cooker size: If your slow cooker is smaller, halve the recipe to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking.
- Programmable settings: Use the low setting for foolproof results over 6-8 hours. Avoid the high setting, as it can overcook the meatballs and create dry spots.
- Budget-friendly picks: Don’t have a slow cooker yet? Consider dependable brands like Crockpot or Hamilton Beach for under $50.
Simple Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs
This recipe shines because it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s the lowdown on the MVPs:
- Ground beef: I recommend 85/15 for a balance of juiciness and flavor without being overly fatty.
- Italian seasoned bread crumbs: These pack in seasoning and save you from grabbing multiple spices. Swap with plain crumbs and a pinch of Italian herbs if needed.
- Spaghetti sauce: A quality jarred sauce adds convenience and depth to the dish. Brands like Rao’s or Barilla work wonderfully.
- Canned tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes and tomato puree bring that homemade sauce feel without hours of simmering.
Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 ¼ cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 (28 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 (16 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.25 ounce) can tomato puree
Step-by-Step Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and prep your workspace.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, and beaten egg. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Shape the mixture into 16 evenly-sized meatballs and set aside.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato puree into your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Gently nestle the meatballs into the sauce mixture, ensuring they are submerged.
- Cover and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve warm over pasta, with crusty bread, or as-is for a comforting meal.
Jake’s Tips for the Best Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs
- Browning optional: If you have an extra 10 minutes, brown the meatballs in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker for even more flavor.
- Batch prep: Double the recipe and freeze half of the uncooked meatballs for a future meal. Just thaw and cook as directed.
- Storage: Leftovers? Store cooked meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Keep them sturdy: Don’t skimp on the breadcrumbs and egg—they help bind the meatballs so they don’t fall apart during cooking.
Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs Variations
- Turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on doneness to avoid drying them out.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of some ground beef.
- Cheesy surprise: Hide a small cube of mozzarella inside each meatball for a gooey center your family will love.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground ‘meat’ and vegan bread crumbs for a meat-free version.
Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs FAQs
Do I need to brown the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker?
No, you don’t have to brown them—though it does add extra flavor. These homemade meatballs in slow cooker turn out perfectly tender without any pre-cooking.
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re short on time, replace homemade with store-bought frozen meatballs. Adjust the cook time to 4-6 hours on low for simple slow cooker meatballs.
Are these healthier than traditional fried meatballs?
Yes! These healthy slow cooker meatballs skip the frying for a lighter but equally flavorful result.
What’s the best way to serve them?
These slow cooker Italian meatballs are perfect over pasta, on sub rolls, or even alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Be sure to use enough binding ingredients like breadcrumbs and egg. Mixing gently and not overworking the meat also helps.
Making easy slow cooker meatballs has never been simpler (or tastier). Give this recipe a try and let me know—what’s your favorite twist on classic meatballs? Share your tips or variations in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you cook up!
Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and prep your workspace.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, and beaten egg. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Shape the mixture into 16 evenly-sized meatballs and set aside.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato puree into your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Gently nestle the meatballs into the sauce mixture, ensuring they are submerged.
- Cover and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve warm over pasta, with crusty bread, or as-is for a comforting meal.
Notes
Written by Jake
Hi, I’m Jake — the home cook behind Kitchen Shortcuts. I create easy crockpot meals and slow cooker recipes designed for busy families who want flavorful home-cooked food with less effort.
