Slow Cooker Meatballs Marinara (Print Version)

Tender meatballs slowly cooked in rich marinara, perfect for gatherings and easy meals.

# Components:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
02 - 0.5 lb ground pork
03 - 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs
04 - 0.33 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 0.25 cup whole milk
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1.5 tsp salt
10 - 0.5 tsp black pepper
11 - 1 tsp dried oregano
12 - 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

→ Marinara Sauce

13 - 48 oz marinara sauce
14 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
15 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
16 - 1 tbsp olive oil
17 - 1 tsp dried basil
18 - 1 tsp dried oregano
19 - Salt and pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - 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 without overmixing.
02 - Shape mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
03 - For firmer meatballs, broil on high for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until lightly browned. This step is optional.
04 - In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
05 - Add sautéed onion and garlic, marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
06 - Gently nestle the meatballs into the sauce in the slow cooker.
07 - Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours, until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
08 - Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Set it and forget it—the slow cooker does all the work while you entertain
  • Perfectly tender meatballs infused with aromatic herbs and spices
  • Versatile serving options: serve as appetizers with toothpicks or over spaghetti for a hearty main dish
  • Great for meal prep—stores well and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
  • Crowd-friendly and easily doubles or triples for larger gatherings
02 -
  • Use an 80/20 blend of ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture
  • Don't skip the milk-soaked breadcrumbs—they keep the meatballs incredibly tender
  • Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding to the slow cooker deepens the sauce flavor
  • Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized meatballs that cook evenly
  • Resist the urge to stir too often—let the meatballs cook undisturbed for best texture
  • Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety
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