Olivia Carter
If you’re in the mood for some traditional Italian comfort food, look no further than this delicious slow cooker meatball recipe. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, these meatballs are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do all the work, making this recipe incredibly easy and convenient.
Made with a combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a variety of herbs and spices, these meatballs are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them with spaghetti and marinara sauce or as a hearty meatball sub, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, cooking them in the slow cooker ensures that they become incredibly tender and juicy, making every bite a delight.
Not only is this recipe easy and delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your own twist by incorporating additional ingredients like grated cheese, diced onions, or minced garlic. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. No matter how you choose to customize this recipe, one thing is for sure – these slow cooker Italian meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.
Italian Meatballs: A Delicious Slow Cooker Recipe
One of the key ingredients in a delicious Italian meatball recipe is a blend of ground meats. Combining ground beef, pork, and veal creates a rich and complex flavor. These meats are seasoned with herbs and spices such as garlic, onion, parsley, and oregano, which give the meatballs their distinct Italian taste.
Using a slow cooker to cook Italian meatballs
Using a slow cooker to cook Italian meatballs is a convenient and hands-off method that allows the flavors to develop over time. The slow cooker gently simmers the meatballs in a flavorful tomato sauce, resulting in meatballs that are tender and packed with flavor.
Here is a simple and delicious slow cooker Italian meatball recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 pound ground veal
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, veal, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- In a slow cooker, pour half the marinara sauce to cover the bottom.
- Add the meatballs to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve the Italian meatballs with pasta, on a sub or sandwich, or as an appetizer.
These slow cooker Italian meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next meal. The combination of meats and flavors creates a dish that is packed with taste and can be enjoyed in various ways. Give this recipe a try and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious results!
Why Slow Cooker Meatballs Are the Best Option
There are several reasons why slow cooker meatballs are the best option when it comes to Italian cooking. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the meatballs perfectly. This method also ensures that the meatballs are tender and juicy, as they have plenty of time to cook and develop a fork-tender texture.
Another advantage of using a slow cooker for meatballs is the convenience factor. Once you have prepared the meatballs and sauce, you can simply set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about the cooking process. Plus, the long cooking time allows you to start the dish in the morning and have it ready by dinnertime, making it a great option for busy families.
If you’re hosting a party or a gathering, slow cooker meatballs are a crowd-pleaser. The aroma of the meatballs simmering in the slow cooker is sure to entice your guests and create a welcoming atmosphere. Plus, serving meatballs in a slow cooker keeps them warm throughout the event, allowing your guests to continuously enjoy them without worrying about them getting cold.
In addition to these benefits, slow cooker meatballs are also a versatile option. You can use any type of ground meat and experiment with different seasoning and sauce combinations to create a variety of flavors. Whether you prefer classic Italian-style meatballs in tomato sauce or something more adventurous like Asian-inspired meatballs in a sweet and tangy sauce, the slow cooker method allows you to easily customize the dish to your taste.
In conclusion, slow cooker meatballs are the best option for their rich flavor, tender texture, convenience, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a party, these meatballs cooked in a slow cooker are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Classic Italian Meatballs
Italian meatballs are a classic and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them on their own, served with spaghetti, or stuffed into a sub sandwich, the key to a truly tasty meatball lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients.
To make the perfect classic Italian meatballs, you will need a combination of ground meats, breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and spices. A traditional recipe often calls for a mixture of ground beef, ground pork, and ground veal to achieve a perfect blend of flavors and textures. However, if you prefer a different combination or have dietary restrictions, you can always adjust the proportions to your liking.
The breadcrumbs play a crucial role in adding texture and binding the meatballs together. You can use fresh or dried breadcrumbs, depending on your preference. Fresh breadcrumbs will give you a lighter and airier texture, while dried breadcrumbs will result in a slightly denser meatball. Some recipes also call for soaking the breadcrumbs in milk or broth to add extra moisture to the meat mixture.
An essential ingredient in Italian meatballs is Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. These hard, flavorful cheeses add a rich and savory taste to the meatballs. Grate the cheese finely to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture.
To enhance the flavor of the meatballs, herbs and spices such as garlic, parsley, oregano, and basil are added. These aromatic ingredients bring a touch of freshness and a Mediterranean flair to the dish. Remember to finely chop the herbs to release their flavors and distribute them evenly.
Lastly, don’t forget to season your meatballs with salt and pepper to taste. These basic seasonings will enhance the overall flavor and ensure the meatballs are perfectly seasoned.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Perfect Slow Cooker Meatballs
Making slow cooker meatballs is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With the right ingredients and technique, you can create juicy and flavourful meatballs that are sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect slow cooker meatballs.
Gather your ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for your meatballs. This includes ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Make sure all your ingredients are fresh and of high quality for the best results.
Mix the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until they are well combined, being careful not to overmix as it can make the meatballs tough.
Shape the meatballs
Scoop a small portion of the meat mixture and roll it between your hands to form a meatball. The size of the meatball is up to personal preference, but aim for bite-sized meatballs that will cook evenly in the slow cooker. Place the shaped meatballs on a plate or lined baking sheet.
Cook the meatballs in the slow cooker
Place the meatballs in a slow cooker that has been coated with cooking spray or lined with slow cooker liners. Pour your choice of marinara sauce or tomato sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are fully covered. Gently stir the sauce to coat the meatballs evenly.
Cook on low heat
Cover the slow cooker and cook the meatballs on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender. Avoid opening the slow cooker during the cooking process, as this will release heat and extend the cooking time.
Serve and enjoy
Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving dish. Serve the meatballs with the sauce and garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. These delicious slow cooker meatballs are perfect on their own, served with pasta, or in a sub sandwich.
Follow these step-by-step instructions for making perfect slow cooker meatballs, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing Italian dish that is not only delicious but easy to make.
Tips for Achieving an Authentic Italian Flavor
When it comes to Italian cuisine, one of the most important aspects is achieving an authentic flavor. This can be difficult, especially if you are not familiar with the traditional cooking techniques and ingredients used in Italian cooking. However, by following these tips, you can bring the taste of Italy into your own kitchen.
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients are a cornerstone of Italian cuisine. Look for locally sourced vegetables, herbs, and meats to bring out the best flavors in your dishes. Avoid using canned or processed ingredients whenever possible to maintain an authentic taste.
2. Balance the Flavors: Italian cuisine is all about finding the perfect balance of flavors. Experiment with different combinations of sweet, salty, acidic, and bitter flavors to create a depth of taste in your dishes. Use ingredients like balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and fresh herbs to enhance the flavors of your dishes.
3. Cook Slowly: Slow cooking is key to achieving an authentic Italian flavor. Whether you are making a sauce, soup, or stew, allowing the ingredients to simmer on low heat for a longer period of time will help develop rich and complex flavors. Consider using a slow cooker or simmering your dishes on the stove for a few hours to achieve the best results.
4. Don’t Forget the Cheese: Cheese is an essential ingredient in Italian cuisine. From Parmigiano-Reggiano to Pecorino Romano, adding grated cheese to your dishes will enhance the flavor and texture. Be sure to use the appropriate cheese for each recipe to maintain an authentic taste.
5. Embrace Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs are a staple in Italian cooking and can make a huge difference in the flavor of your dishes. Incorporate herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme to add a burst of freshness and aroma. Consider growing your own herb garden to have a constant supply of fresh herbs for your Italian dishes.
6. Don’t Overdo the Garlic: While garlic is a popular ingredient in Italian cooking, it’s important to use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors. Use garlic cloves instead of garlic powder whenever possible for a more authentic taste.
7. Taste as You Go: One of the best ways to ensure an authentic Italian flavor is to taste your dishes as you cook. Adjust the seasonings and flavors as needed to achieve the perfect balance. Remember, cooking is an art, and your taste buds are the best judge.
By following these tips, you can bring the taste of Italy to your kitchen and create delicious and authentic Italian dishes that will impress your family and friends.
Serve and Enjoy: Accompaniments and Serving Suggestions
Once your delicious Italian meatballs are ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy them with some tasty accompaniments and serving suggestions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these ideas will elevate your meatball dish to a whole new level.
1. Classic Spaghetti: Serve your Italian meatballs over a bed of al dente spaghetti for a classic and comforting meal. Top it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Sub Sandwiches: Create mouthwatering meatball sub sandwiches by layering Italian meatballs and melted cheese onto a crusty baguette. Add some marinara sauce and your favorite toppings, like sliced peppers and onions.
3. Meatball Sliders: For a fun twist, serve mini-sized meatball sliders on soft slider buns. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or entertaining guests.
4. Polenta or Mashed Potatoes: Pair your meatballs with creamy polenta or fluffy mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds craving for more.
5. Caprese Salad: Balance out the richness of the meatballs with a refreshing Caprese salad. Simply combine fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
6. Garlic Bread: Complete your meal with some homemade garlic bread. Slice a baguette, spread garlic butter on each piece, and toast it in the oven until golden and crispy.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance the flavors of your Italian meatballs but also provide a variety of options for different occasions and preferences. Whether you choose to serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or with a side dish, one thing is for certain – your family and friends will be delighted by the deliciousness of your homemade Italian meatballs!
10 Best Italian Meatball Recipe Slow Cooker
Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, with 8-in-1 Slow Cooker, Dutch Oven, Steamer, Glass Lid Integrated Spoon, Nonstick, Oven Safe...
Features
| Part Number | MC1001 |
| Model | MC1001 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
| Color | Sea Salt Gray |
| Release Date | 2022-08-10T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8.5 Quarts |
- REPLACES 14 COOKING TOOLS and APPLIANCES: This cooker replaces the need for a slow cooker, steam oven, food warmer, nonstick pot, sauté pan, cast iron skillet, saucier, steamer, saucepan, stock pot, Dutch oven, roasting pan, bread maker, and utensil.
- SEAR and SAUTÉ DIRECTLY IN THE POT: Using the bottom heating elements, you are able to sear proteins and sauté vegetables right in the cooking pot—no need to transfer to the stovetop.
- OVEN SAFE TO 500 degree F: Removable cooking pot is oven safe up to 500 degree F, so you can finish your meal in the oven for a crispy top.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: 8.5-quart cooking capacity allows you to make chili for up to 20 people, 9 lbs. of spaghetti and meatballs, or enough pulled pork for 30 sliders.
- TRIPLE FUSION HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Cook up to 30 percent faster* than conventional ovens by combining bottom, side, and steam heat. More heat, more possibilities. Tested on 6-lb chickens.
- 8 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Steam, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, Bake, and Proof.
- INCLUDED UTENSIL: Multi-functional utensil works as a ladle and pasta fork, plus it has its own utensil rest right in the lid handle.
- EASY CLEANUP: Nonstick pot enables you to quickly wipe away messes and makes for a stress-free cleaning experience. Utensil and glass lid are dishwasher safe. Hand-washing pot recommended to extend its life.
- SAFE and EASY TO USE: Free of PFOA, cadmium, and lead.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: 8.5-Quart Cooking Pot, PossibleCooker Base Unit, Integrated Detachable Spoon-Ladle, Glass Cooking Lid, Chef Curated Recipe Guide.
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that's warm and ready when it's time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
TRU Triple Buffet Server, Three 2-1/2-Quart Removable Inserts
Features
| Part Number | 189212 |
| Model | BS-325LR |
| Color | Black and Silver |
| Size | 7.5 quart |
- Triple Slow Cooker: With the TRU triple slow cooker, meal planning and party prepping is less stressful when hosting or entertaining
- Buffet Servers & Warmers: The three separate crock inserts of this triple slow cooker buffet server have individual heat control so preparing multiple dishes for your next party is a breeze
- Triple Buffet Server Features: This triple slow cooker has lid rests and removable inserts that are dishwasher safe; it also comes with 3 serving spoons so you're ready to go
- About TRU: TRU is all about community, which is why we create kitchen appliances and accessories you can use to create delicious home-cooked meals and drinks that will bring your community together
- 120V, 420 watts, 2 blade polarized plug, household use only
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and...
Features
| Part Number | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Model | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Personalized Cooking: MyTime adjusts the cooking cycle so your meal is ready exactly when you want it
- Leak-proof Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills
- Large Capacity: Fitted with a 7-quart bowl that serves 7+ people - perfect for families or gatherings
- Temperature Control: Auto-adjustment cooking cycle ensures meals are never overcooked but always flavor-filled
- Intuitive Control: Flat digital control screen lets you schedule meal times, and manually control cook time and temperature
- Convenient Handles: 'Cook and Carry' handles for hassle-free lifting and carrying
- Sustainable Materials: Made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), and is 100% recyclable.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Cook & Carry™ Slow Cooker with Sous Vide,Programmable, Stainless Steel
Features
| Part Number | 2176658 |
| Model | 2176658 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty. See Product Manual for Additional Details. |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Release Date | 2023-08-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Perfectly cooked meals with Sous Vide
- Precision Cooking with removable temperature probe
- Cook & Carry Locking Lid- The Cook & Carry travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills, for no mess on the go.
- Innovative design More usable cooking space for family-size meals *Compared with SCV700 Crockpot.
- Keep-Warm Setting: Keeps food at serving temperature until it's time to eat
- This product contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), C6-19-Fatty acids, C16-18, zinc salts
FAQ
What are some accompaniments that go well with grilled chicken?
Some popular accompaniments for grilled chicken include roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, coleslaw, and garlic mashed potatoes.
What are some serving suggestions for a cheese platter?
When serving a cheese platter, you can include a variety of cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and gouda. Accompany the cheeses with crackers, bread, fruits like grapes and apples, and nuts such as almonds and walnuts.
What are some accompaniments that work well with steak?
Common accompaniments for steak include mashed potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, grilled asparagus, and a side salad. Additionally, you may want to serve the steak with a sauce like peppercorn or béarnaise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, accompaniments and serving suggestions play a crucial role in enhancing the overall dining experience. They add depth and variety to a dish, allowing the flavors to truly shine. Whether it’s a simple sauce, a sprinkle of herbs, or a carefully selected side dish, the right accompaniment can elevate a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Additionally, serving suggestions can help inspire creativity in the kitchen and encourage experimentation with different flavors and textures. So, next time you’re preparing a meal, don’t forget to consider the accompaniments and serving suggestions – they may just be the key to creating a memorable dining experience. Serve and enjoy!
