Crockpot Meatballs: The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When the week gets busy, finding the time and energy to prepare a delicious dinner can feel overwhelming. Luckily, this crockpot meatballs recipe is here to save the day! It’s an easy, flavorful dish that requires minimal hands-on time and delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, these meatballs will quickly become a family favorite.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes on low or 3 hours 15 minutes on high
- Serving: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- Cooked pasta or sub rolls, for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs into the crockpot in a single layer.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve the meatballs over cooked pasta or in sub rolls topped with extra marinara sauce and cheese, if desired.
- Enjoy your easy and delicious weeknight meal!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Meatballs
To ensure your meatballs come out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality ground meats will elevate the flavor of your meatballs.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to use different sauces, such as BBQ or teriyaki, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Serve with spaghetti and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a classic Italian meal.
- Place meatballs in sub rolls, top with melted cheese, and enjoy as a hearty sandwich.
- Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce for parties or game day.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of sauce. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This crockpot meatballs recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal without the hassle, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with family and friends!
