After trying this method, I’ll never make meatballs any other way. Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender—this recipe is a game-changer.

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Slow Cooker Meatballs: Effortless Comfort Food

There’s something timeless about slow cooker meals—the kind that simmer quietly while life goes on. This easy meatball recipe turns that old “set-it-and-forget-it” magic into a reliable weeknight win. Soft, flavorful meatballs bathed in rich sauce deliver all the comfort of a long-simmered family dinner, minus the hassle.

Ingredients

Meatballs

2 lbs ground beef (or a blend with pork or veal)
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup finely diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup milk
2 large eggs
2 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano

Sauce

24 oz jar marinara sauce
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 Parmesan rind (optional, adds richness)

Optional Toppings

Chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese
Extra red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix just until everything comes together—overmixing can make the meatballs dense.

2. Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into balls about 1½ inches wide and set aside.

3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Spread half of the marinara sauce across the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the meatballs on top in a single layer if possible, stacking lightly if needed. Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if using.

4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.

5. Finish and Serve
Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly in sauce. Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, or extra chili flakes. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Tips & Helpful Notes

Make ahead: Shape the meatballs the night before and refrigerate.
Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Boost flavor: Drop a Parmesan rind into the sauce while cooking for added depth.
Optional browning: Sear meatballs briefly before slow cooking for a lightly caramelized exterior.

✨ Simple, cozy, and always satisfying—these slow cooker meatballs are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

0 1 minute read